Safety Data Sheet

Surface Sensitized Emulsion

1.

IDENTIFICATION OF MATERIAL AND SUPPLIER

Product Name

Surface Sensitized Emulsion

Other Names

S100, S120, S130, S135, S150, S154, S157, S160, S164, S171, S174,
S180, S300, S320, S330, S335, S350, S354, S357, S360, S364, S371,
S374, S380

Recommended use of
the chemical and
restrictions on use

This product is recommended for use in general mining and

quarrying, as well as general blasting work. The product is typically
pumped or augured into a blast hole via an approved delivery
system as a bulk explosive. This product is the Surface Bulk
Emulsion that has been sensitised with a sodium nitrite based
gassing solution as well as the addition of Ammonium Nitrate prill
in some cases

Supplier

AEL Mining Services (a division of AECI Australia Pty Ltd.)

ABN: 33 165 704 870
Level 3, Christie Centre, 320 Adelaide Street
Brisbane, QLD
Australia

Contact

Telephone: +61 7 322 10168

Facsimile: +61 7 322 00491

Emergency phone
number

1 800 272 269

2.

HAZARDS IDENTIFICATION

Hazard Classification:

ADG DANGEROUS GOODS; HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCE

NOHSC DANGEROUS GOODS; HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCE
IMDG DANGEROUS GOODS; HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCE
Safework Australia HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCE

Classification of
substance of mixture:

Explosives division 1.1

Carcinogenicity category 2
Acute Aquatic Toxicity category 3

SDS_Surface Sensitised Bulk Emulsion_Rev 02.docx9 July 2015

Page | 1

Safety Data Sheet

Surface Sensitized Emulsion

Signal word:

Chronic Aquatic Toxicity category 3

DANGER

Symbols:

Hazard Statements
and Codes:

H201
H351
H402
H412

Explosive; mass explosion hazard

Suspected of causing cancer
Harmful to aquatic life
Harmful to aquatic life with long lasting effects

Precautionary
Statements:

Prevention:
P210 Keep away from heat/sparks/open flames/hot surfaces. No
smoking.
P285 In case of inadequate ventilation wear respiratory protection.
P240 Ground/bond container and receiving equipment.
P250 Do not subject to grinding/shock/friction/impact/electrical
energy from extraneous source (lighting, static electricity, stray
currents, galvanic electricity or electromagnetic radiation) or any
form of heating.
P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye
protection/face protection.
P103 Read label before use.
P201 Obtain special instructions before use.
P202 Do not handle until all safety precautions have been read and
understood.
P281 Use personal protective equipment as required.
P273 Avoid release to the environment.
Response:
P370; P380 In case of fire: Evacuate area.
P372
Explosion risk in case of fire.
P373
DO NOT fight fire when fire reaches explosives.
P308; P313 IF exposed or concerned: Get medical
advice/attention.
Storage:
P401 Store in accordance with Hazardous Substances (Class 1 to
5) Control Regulations 2001.
P405 Store locked up.
Disposal:
P501 Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local,

SDS_Surface Sensitised Bulk Emulsion_Rev 02.docx9 July 2015

Page | 2

Safety Data Sheet

Surface Sensitized Emulsion

regional, national and international regulations.

Poisons Schedule:
None allocated.

3.

COMPOSITION/INFORMATION ON INGREDIENTS

Components
Ammonium Nitrate
Fuel, Diesel
Non-hazardous components (including
water)

4.

CAS Number
6484-52-2

Proportion
>60%

68334-30-5
-

0-10%
<25%

Hazard Codes
H201; H402;
H412
H351

FIRST AID MEASURES

For Advice in the event of an emergency, contact a Poisons Information Centre (Australia:
131 126) or a medical doctor immediately.
Inhalation

If inhaled, remove from the contaminated area. If victim is not

breathing provide artificial respiration. If breathing is difficult,
provide oxygen. Seek medical attention.

Ingestion

Do NOT induce vomiting unless directed to do so by medical

personnel. Provide water to rinse mouth out. Never give anything
by mouth to an unconscious person. Loosen tight clothing such as
a collar, tie, belt or waistband. Seek medical attention if
symptoms appear.

Skin Contact

In case of skin contact, immediately flush skin with plenty of water

for at least 15 minutes while removing contaminated clothing and
shoes. Cover the irritated skin with an emollient. Cold water may
be used. Wash clothing before reuse. Thoroughly clean shoes
before reuse. Seek medical attention immediately.

Eye Contact

Check for and remove any contact lenses. In case of contact,

immediately flush eyes with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes.

SDS_Surface Sensitised Bulk Emulsion_Rev 02.docx9 July 2015

Page | 3

Safety Data Sheet

Surface Sensitized Emulsion

Cold water may be used. Seek medical attention.

Note to physician

Treat symptomatically. Explosive material. May cause

methemoglobinemia. Treat as for exposure to nitrates.
For ammonium nitrate: Clinical findings: The smooth muscle
relaxant effect of nitrate salts may lead to headache, dizziness and
marked hypotension. Cyanosis is clinically detectable when
approximately 15% of the haemoglobin has been converted to
methaemoglobin (ie. ferric iron). Symptoms such as headache,
dizziness, weakness and dyspnoea occur when methaemoglobin
concentrations are 30% to 40%; at levels of about 60%, stupor,
convulsions, coma and respiratory paralysis occur and the blood is
a chocolate brown colour. At higher levels death may result.
Spectrophotometric analysis can determine the presence and
concentration of methaemoglobin in blood.
Treatment:
1. Give 100% oxygen.
2. In cases of:
a. ingestion: use gastric lavage.
b. contamination of skin (unburnt or burnt): continue washing
to remove
3. Observe blood pressure and treat hypotension if necessary.
4. When methaemoglobin concentrations exceed 40% or when
symptoms are present, give methylene blue 1 to 2 mg/kg body
weight in a 1% solution by slow intravenous injection. If
cyanosis has not resolved within one hour a second dose of
2mg/kg body weight may be given. The total dose should not
exceed 7 mg/kg body weight as unwanted effects such as
dyspnoea, chest pain, vomiting, diarrhoea, mental confusion
and cyanosis may occur. Without treatment methaemoglobin
levels of 20-30% revert to normal within 3 days.
5. Bed rest is required for methaemoglobin levels in excess of
40%.
6. Continue to monitor and give oxygen for at least two hours
after treatment with methylene blue.
7. Consider transfer to centre where haemoperfusion can be
performed to remove the nitrates from the blood if the condition
of the patient is unstable.
8. Following inhalation of oxides of nitrogen the patient should be
observed in hospital for 24 hours for delayed onset of
pulmonary oedema.

SDS_Surface Sensitised Bulk Emulsion_Rev 02.docx9 July 2015

Page | 4

Safety Data Sheet

Surface Sensitized Emulsion

Further observation for 2-3 weeks may be required to detect the

onset of the inflammatory changes of bronchiolitis fibrosa
obliterans. No specific treatment. Treat symptomatically.
Call medical doctor or Poisons Information Centre immediately if
large quantities are ingested.

5.

FIRE FIGHTING MEASURES

Hazards from
combusting products

Oxidizing substance. Will support combustion of other materials.

Increases intensity of a fire. Decomposes on heating emitting
irritating white fumes. Brown fumes indicate the presence of toxic
oxides of nitrogen.

Special protective
equipment and
precautions for firefighters

When controlling fire before involvement of explosives, fire fighters

should wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus
(SCBA) and full turnout gear. Fire fighters protective clothing will
provide limited protection.
DO NOT FIGHT FIRE WHEN IT REACHES MATERIAL. Withdraw
from fire and let it burn. Promptly isolate the scene by removing
all persons from the vicinity of the incident if there is a fire. First
move people out of line-of-sight of the scene and away from
windows.
No additional remarks.

6.

ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES

Emergency
procedures

Clear area of all unprotected personnel. Shut off all possible

sources of ignition. Wear protective equipment to prevent skin and
eye contact and inhalation of vapours/dusts. If contamination of
sewers or waterways has occurred advise local emergency
services.
This material is classified as a Security Sensitive Ammonium

SDS_Surface Sensitised Bulk Emulsion_Rev 02.docx9 July 2015

Page | 5

Safety Data Sheet

Surface Sensitized Emulsion

Nitrate (SSAN). Spillage recovery needs to be appropriately

documented and material accurately accounted for. In the case of
a transport accident the Police, Explosives Inspector and AEL
Mining Services Pty Ltd (Telephone: +27 11 608 3300) need to be
notified.
Methods and
materials for
containment and
clean up

7.

When spilt, may pose a slip-hazard. Ensure that the appropriate

PPE is used: splash goggles, overalls buttoned up covering
the neck and wrists, boots and gloves. Consult a specialist
BEFORE attempting to handle this product. Avoid accidents, clean
up immediately. Absorb with DRY earth, sand or other noncombustible absorbent material. Prevent entry of the product into
cavities or drainage systems such as sewers, drains, waterways,
basements or confined areas. Dike if required for containment.
Call for assistance on disposal. Avoid touching spilled material.
Collection of product should be done into containers that are
properly labelled, having loose fitting lids, to ensure ease of
disposal. Under no circumstances should spilled material be placed
back into the original container. Any contaminated material such as
clothing, equipment and pallets should be comprehensively
washed.

HANDLING AND STORAGE

Precautions for safe

handling

Conditions for safe

storage, including any
incompatibilities

Avoid skin and eye contact and breathing in vapour.

Do NOT subject the material to impact, friction between hard
surfaces nor to any form of heating.
Avoid all contact with other chemicals.
Wear suitable protective clothing. In case of insufficient
ventilation, wear suitable respiratory equipment. Avoid contact
with skin and eyes.
Keep away from any sources of ignition and ensure that
precautionary measures are taken against electrostatic
discharges.
Ensure that the product is stored away from strong acids,
strong alkalis, nitrites, chlorates, chlorides and permanganates.

SDS_Surface Sensitised Bulk Emulsion_Rev 02.docx9 July 2015

Page | 6

Safety Data Sheet

Surface Sensitized Emulsion

Product Deterioration

Due to Ammonium Nitrates incompatibility with

tetranitromethane, dichloroisocyanuric acid, trichloroisocyanuric
acid, any bromates, chlorates, chlorites, hypochlorites or
chloroisocyanurate or any inorganic nitrites, it must be stored
separately from these types of Items.
Storage must be in a cool place out of direct sunlight.
When not in use containers need to remain sealed and checked
regularly for leakages.

Deterioration occurs due to a process of slow crystallization of the

ammonium nitrate out of the super saturated salt encapsulated
oxidiser resulting in an increase of viscosity or thickening. Under
heating for prolonged periods the emulsion may separate into its
original components. Degraded Product can become unsuitable for
further use.
It must be ensured that ammonium nitrate is stored securely and
in accordance with regulations/controls issued by relevant
authority. Secure storage of ammonium nitrate within Australia
does include but is not limited to: the use of site security plans,
locking the facility/container with physical restraining items,
validation and record keeping of all stock, and where suitably
deemed necessary through a risk management approach, constant
surveillance. Inside Australia, all persons who have unsupervised
access to Security Sensitive Ammonium Nitrate (SSAN) are
required to have security clearances. Issuing of security clearances
is controlled and issued through the local Government authorities.
Checks would include the following: a criminal history check (CHC),
and a politically motivated violence check (PMV).

8.

EXPOSURE CONTROLS/PERSONAL PROTECTION

Occupational
Exposure Limits

No exposure limit values assigned for this specific material by the

Safe Work Australia. However, the available exposure limits for the
ingredients of the substance are as follows:

SDS_Surface Sensitised Bulk Emulsion_Rev 02.docx9 July 2015

Page | 7

Safety Data Sheet

Surface Sensitized Emulsion

Oil mist, refined mineral: 8hr TWA = 5 mg/m3 (as published by

the Safe Work Australia).
TWA - The time-weighted average airborne concentration over an
eight-hour working day, for a five-day working week over an entire
working life.
These Exposure Standards are to be used as guides in the control
of occupational health hazards. All attempts should be made to
keep atmospheric contamination at as low a level as is workable.
These exposure standards are not a measure of relative toxicity
and should not be used as fine dividing lines between safe and
dangerous concentrations of chemicals.

Appropriate
engineering controls

Individual protection
measures, such as
Personal Protective
Equipment (PPE)

Supplier recommended Exposure Standard:

Diesel Oil: 5 mg/m3 (stable aerosols) for 8 hour time-weighted
average (TWA).
Provide exhaust ventilation or other engineering controls to keep
the airborne concentrations of vapours below their respective
occupational exposure limits.
The selection of PPE is dependent on a detailed risk assessment.
The risk assessment should consider the work situation, the
physical form of the chemical, the handling methods, and
environmental factors.
Recommended PPE is OVERALLS (Buttoned to the Neck and wrist),
SAFETY SHOES, SAFETY GLASSES, GLOVES.

Wear overalls, safety glasses and impervious gloves. Always wash

hands before smoking, eating, drinking or using the toilet.

SDS_Surface Sensitised Bulk Emulsion_Rev 02.docx9 July 2015

Page | 8

Safety Data Sheet

Surface Sensitized Emulsion

9.

PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROPERTIES

Physical State
Colour
Odour
Solubility
Specific Gravity
Flash Point (C)

Gel/solid
Clear to gold yellow mixture with white particles
Negligible
Insoluble in water
1.05-1.25 at 20C
Not applicable

10. STABILITY AND REACTIVITY

Chemical Stability

Explosive material. Detonation may result due to heavy impact or

excessive heating, in particular if product is under confinement.

Conditions to avoid

Avoid exposure to friction, heat, shock, sources of ignition, and

open flame. Avoid contact with other chemicals. Avoid contact
with combustible substances.

Incompatible
materials

Incompatible with the following materials: nitrites, chlorates,

chlorides permanganates, strong acids, strong alkalis with any
combustible materials. Ammonium nitrate is a strong oxidising
agent which is incompatible with tetranitromethane,
dichloroisocyanuric acid, trichloroisocyanuric acid, any bromates,
chlorates, chlorites, hypochlorites, perchlorates,
chloroisocyanurates, any inorganic nitrites, and metal powders.

Hazardous reactions

Explosive material. Detonation may result due to heavy impact or

excessive heating, in particular if product is under confinement.
Hazardous polymerisation will not occur.

Hazardous
decomposition
products

Oxides of carbon and nitrogen. When heated to decomposition

(unconfined) ammonium nitrate produces nitrous oxide, white
ammonium nitrate fumes and water. When mixed with strong
acids, and occasionally during blasting, it produces an irritating
toxic brown gas, mostly of nitrogen dioxide. When molten may
decompose violently due to shock or pressure.

SDS_Surface Sensitised Bulk Emulsion_Rev 02.docx9 July 2015

Page | 9

Safety Data Sheet

Surface Sensitized Emulsion

11. TOXOLOGICAL INFORMATION

Ingestion

May cause burns to mouth, throat and stomach.

Eye Contact

Hazardous in case of eye contact (irritant).

Skin Contact

Hazardous in case of skin contact (irritant). Skin inflammation is

characterised by itching, scaling, reddening or occasionally,
blistering.

Inhalation

Hazardous in case of inhalation. Inhalation of the spray mist may

produce severe irritation of respiratory tract, characterised by
coughing, choking or shortness of breath.

Acute toxicity

No LD50 data available for the product.

For the constituent AMMONIUM NITRATE: Oral LD50 (rat): 2217
mg/kg., Dermal LD50 (rabbit): 3000 mg/kg.

Chronic Effects

No information is currently available for the product. The primary

overdose effects of nitrates include orthostatic hypotension and
methemoglobinemia. Orthostatic hypotension and reflex
tachycardia are common. Headache nausea and vomiting may
possibly also occur. In severe poisoning unconsciousness,
dizziness, fatigue shortness of breath and hypotension may
possibly occur. If good personal hygiene is practised then any
toxic effect would be unlikely to occur.

12. ECOLOGICAL INFORMATION

Ecotoxicity

Avoid contaminating waterways.

Aquatic toxicity

Harmful to aquatic organisms and may cause long term adverse

effects within an aquatic environment. Ammonium nitrate was
evaluated at 5, 10, 25 and 50 mg (NH4+)/L.
The fertility of Daphnia magna was seen to decrease at 50 mg/L.
Post embryonic growth of crustacea was seen to be impaired at 10,
25 and 50 mg/L.

SDS_Surface Sensitised Bulk Emulsion_Rev 02.docx9 July 2015

Page | 10

Safety Data Sheet

Surface Sensitized Emulsion

13. DISPOSAL CONSIDERATIONS

Disposal Methods

Refer to AS2187.2 and state regulatory and environmental

legislation for correct disposal of material. Only Small quantities of
damaged explosives or degraded explosives may be destroyed by
inclusion in a borehole containing explosives. Large quantities of
the material may need to be disposed of via a licensed waste
contractor, in which case. AEL Mining Services Pty Ltd should be
contacted.

14. TRANSPORT INFORMATION

Road and Rail
Transport

Classified as Dangerous Goods by the criteria of the Australian

Dangerous Goods Code (ADG Code) for Transport by Road and
Rail; DANGEROUS GOODS.

UN No:
Transport Hazard Class:
Proper Shipping Name or
technical name:

0241
1.1D Explosive
EXPLOSIVE, BLASTING,
TYPE E
Hazchem or Emergency Action E
code:

SDS_Surface Sensitised Bulk Emulsion_Rev 02.docx9 July 2015

Page | 11

Safety Data Sheet

Surface Sensitized Emulsion

Marine Transport

Classified as Dangerous Goods by the criteria of the International

Maritime Dangerous Goods Code (IMDG Code) for Transport by
Marine; DANGEROUS GOODS.
UN No:
Transport Hazard Class:
Proper Shipping Name:

Air Transport

0241
1.1D Explosive
EXPLOSIVE,
BLASTING,
TYPE E
TRANSPORT is PROHIBITED under the International Air Transport
Association (IATA) Dangerous Goods Regulations for transport by
air in passenger aircraft and cargo aircraft.

15. REGULATORY INFORMATION

Hazard Classification

ADG DANGEROUS GOODS; HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCE

NOHSC DANGEROUS GOODS; HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCE
IMDG DANGEROUS GOODS; HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCE
Safework Australia HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCE

Classification of
substance of mixture

Explosives division 1.1

Carcinogenicity category 2
Acute Aquatic Toxicity category 3
Chronic Aquatic Toxicity category 3

Poisons Schedule

None allocated.

SDS_Surface Sensitised Bulk Emulsion_Rev 02.docx9 July 2015

Page | 12

Safety Data Sheet

Surface Sensitized Emulsion

16. OTHER INFORMATION

This safety data sheet has been prepared by AEL Mining Services Research and
Development.
The information provided in this safety data sheet, to the best of our knowledge
at the time of issue, summarises the health and safety hazard information of the
product. It is the responsibility of the user to review this safety data sheet in
context of the intended use of the product prior to using the product. AEL Mining
Services cannot guarantee that all hazards have been listed and described herein.
If the user is in any doubt or needs to obtain additional information on the
product, please contact AEL Mining Services.
Revision Date:

17 June 2015

Revision Details:

1. Format Update
2. Addition of full range of S100 and S300 product names
Name: Kaylee Baker
Signature:
Technologist

Compiled By:

Authorised By:

Name: Andre Pienaar

Product Custodian

SDS_Surface Sensitised Bulk Emulsion_Rev 02.docx9 July 2015

Signature:

Page | 13