Safety Precaution - Fluoroelastomer (Viton) Seals

Group:
10

No.:
802

Date: 10/92

Safety Instructions for Fluoroelastomer Seals

Special precautions must be taken when working on cars in which Fluoroelastomer (i.e., Viton�) seals may have been exposed to extremely high temperatures. This applies even after the seals have cooled. When exposed to temperatures around 600°F (316°C) or greater, decomposition may occur with the formation of hydrofluoric acid, which can be extremely corrosive to human tissue if not handled properly.

Note:
This phenomenon occurs only during and following overheating or combustion of the material. The ash may also contain hydrofluoric acid.

DO NOT TOUCH EITHER THE SEAL OR SURROUNDING EQUIPMENT without wearing neoprene or PVC gloves and safety goggles if degradation is suspected. Gloves and goggles are available from Volvo (see part numbers on next page) or use equivalent. A degraded seal may appear as charred or a black sticky mass. Hydrofluoric acid may be condensed out as a clear liquid on the part or equipment. Allow the equipment to cool. Then wear neoprene or heavy PVC gloves, safety goggles, and a long sleeved shirt to safely handle parts or equipment. Wash parts and equipment well with 10% limewater (calcium hydroxide solution) to neutralize any hydrogen fluoride. Discard gloves after handling degraded fluoroelastomer parts.

FIRST AID: Wash affected areas of the skin IMMEDIATELY with plenty of water. Then rub a 2.5% calcium gluconate gel* into the skin until there is no further irritation, while SEEKING PROMPT MEDICAL ATTENTION. Tell the doctor that a hydrogen fluoride (HF or hydrofluoric acid) burn is suspected.

Note:
Concentrated hydrogen fluoride solutions cause immediate pain, but dilute solutions may not cause redness, burning or pain until several minutes or even hours have elapsed. If such a delayed reaction is experienced, seek medical attention immediately.

*Calcium Glucconate Gel-2.5%. This gel is prepared by mixing 3.5 grams calcium gluconate powder with a 5-ounce tube of surgical water-soluble lubricant (e.g., KY Lubricating Jelly, Johnson & Johnson) or by mixing 1 standard ampule (10 ml, 10%) of USP calcium gluconate with 1-ounce of a water soluble lubricant. The shelf life of the gel has not been determined. Storage of gel has limitations and refrigeration may help.

Seals which have not been exposed to high temperature may be handled normally.

Safety Items:

- Safety Goggles 99866966-1
- Rubber Gloves 9985653-6

Part Numbers Of Viton Components:

Part Numbers / Viton Components