NIOSH Publication No. 2005-151:

NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards

September 2005

Borates, tetra, sodium salts (Decahydrate)

CAS
1303-96-4

Na2B4O7 • 10H2O

RTECS
VZ2275000
Synonyms & Trade Names

Borax, Borax decahydrate, Sodium borate decahydrate, Sodium tetraborate decahydrate
DOT ID & Guide

Exposure
Limits

NIOSH REL: TWA 5 mg/m3
OSHA PEL†: none
IDLH
N.D. See: IDLH INDEX
Conversion
Physical Description
White, odorless, crystalline solid. [herbicide] [Note: Becomes anhydrous at 608°F.]
MW: 381.4
BP: 608°F
MLT: 167°F
Sol: 6%
VP: 0 mmHg (approx)
IP: NA

Sp.Gr: 1.73
Fl.P: NA
UEL: NA
LEL: NA

Noncombustible Solid (an inherent fire retardant).
Incompatibilities & Reactivities

Zirconium, strong acids, metallic salts
Measurement Methods
NIOSH 0500; OSHA ID125G
See: NMAM or OSHA Methods
Personal Protection & Sanitation
(See protection)
Skin: No recommendation
Eyes: No recommendation
Wash skin: Daily
Remove: No recommendation
Change: Daily

First Aid
(See procedures)
Eye: Irrigate immediately
Skin: Soap wash
Breathing: Respiratory support
Swallow: Medical attention immediately
Respirator Recommendations
Not available.
Important additional information about respirator selection
Exposure Routes
inhalation, ingestion, skin and/or eye contact
Symptoms
Irritation eyes, skin, upper respiratory system; dermatitis; epistaxis (nosebleed); cough, dyspnea (breathing difficulty)
Target Organs
Eyes, skin, respiratory system
See also: INTRODUCTION   See ICSC CARD: 0567