Ahuspecnew RRS

Author: L Lindeque Effective date: September 2012
Approved by: L Lotter Revision 01/2012
CHEMICAL AND ALLIED INDUSTRIES’

ASSOCIATION
MANAGEMENT PRACTICE STANDARD SERIES

FOR
PRODUCT STEWARDSHIP: PART 2.3
GUIDANCE DOCUMENT
FOR CYANIDE
SEPTEMBER 2012
1
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Glossary 4
1. INTRODUCTION 6
2. PROPERTIES OF CYANIDE 8
2.1 Physical Properties 8
2.2 Chemical Properties 9
2.3 Cyanide Stability 10
3. HAZARDS OF CYANIDE 11
3.1 Health Hazards 11
3.2 Environmental Hazards 15
4. SAFE STORAGE OF CYANIDE 16
4.1 Storage Drums 16
4.2 Big Bags 16
4.3 Storage Tanks 17
4.4 Storage areas for cyanide containers 18
4.5 Safety Rules for the Storage of Cyanide 18
5. SAFE HANDLING OF CYANIDE 19
5.1 Loading and Off-loading of Cyanide 19
5.2 Product Handling 20
5.3 Opening of drums 22
5.4 Packaging Disposal 22
6. CYANIDE SAFETY EQUIPMENT 23
6.1 Fire Fighting Equipment 23
6.2 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) 23
6.3 Cyanide Detection Monitors 25
6.4 Emergency Equipment 26
7. EMERGENCY PROCEDURES 26
7.1 Emergency Action Plans 27
7.2 Procedures in the Case of Cyanide Exposure 28
7.3 Cyanide Leaks and Spills 29
7.4 Disposal of Cyanide Containing Waste 31
8. CYANIDE INCIDENTS AND INVESTIGATIONS 31
9. PERSONNEL TRAINING 32
10. CYANIDE SIGNAGE 34
11. TRANSPORTATION OF CYANIDE 37
12. WORKPLACE SAFETY 39
12.1 Risk Assessment 39
12.2 Cyanide Operations 40
2
12.3 Medical Surveillance 42

12.4 Personal Hygiene 42
12.5 Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) 42
12.6 Plant Cyanide Inspections 43
12.7 Environmental Management 43
13. EXTENDING SAFETY TO THE CUSTOMER 44
13.1 Customer Sites 44
13.2 Customer Support 45
14. REFERENCES 46
APPENDIX 1: CYANIDE FACILITY INSPECTION FORM 48
3
GUIDANCE DOCUMENT FOR CYANIDE

GLOSSARY
Eco-toxicological: a combination of the methods of ecology and toxicology

in studying the effects of toxic substances and especially pollutants on the
environment.
Incompatible materials: chemicals that should not be mixed or stored close

together as this could result in an undesirable chemical reaction.
SDS (Safety Data Sheet) also called MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet):
is a written document that outlines the information and procedures for
handling and working with a specific chemical. The document contains
information on the physical and chemical properties, potential hazards,
emergency procedures as well as the manufacturer’s contact details. The
format of the SDS has to comply with SANS 11014: 2010 - Safety data sheet
for chemical products - Content and order of sections.
Occupational Exposure Limit – Control Limit (OEL-CL): The occupational

exposure limit for a hazardous chemical substance as listed in Table 1 of
Annexure 1 of the Hazardous Chemical Substance Regulations of the South
African Occupational Health and Safety Act.
Biological monitoring: is the study of the presence and concentration of

chemicals in humans usually by the measurement of blood, urine or breath
(exhaled air). Properly conducted, these data provide a picture of the amount
of a chemical or agent actually absorbed into the body for a specific period of
time.
Buddy system: where work is conducted on or in cyanide equipment or area,

at least two fully trained and competent people are required for the task. One
person will carry out the work, in full PPE as required, while the second
person will remain outside of the hazard or work area. This second person
referred to as the “Buddy”, is also fully equipped with the required cyanide
PPE and will observe the person carrying out the work at all times while that
person is inside the hazard/work area. In the event that the person carrying
out the work is exposed to cyanide or cyanide reaction products, the Buddy
will immediately respond to the emergency situation
4
Cyanide: refers broadly to any form of cyanide contained either as cyanide in

gas phase [HCN (g)], cyanide in liquid phase (free or complexed) and
insoluble forms of cyanide. This may include cyanide reagents.
Medical screening: The administration of a medical test to an individual for

the purpose of detecting organ dysfunction, before a disease becomes
manifest leading the individual to seek medical treatment.
Cumulative Poison: A poison the action of which is cumulative and increases

in concentration in the exposed subject (human or animal) with each
exposure.
Note: Cyanide is non-cumulative. It has low persistence and is not

accumulated or stored in the bodies of mammals.
Cyanide Antidote: Medication administered to a patient contaminated or

exposed to cyanide.
Medical surveillance: The systematic collection, analysis and evaluation of

health data to identify problems or trends suggesting an adverse health effect
or the need for further investigation or medical attention. It is a planned
programme of periodic examination by an occupational health practitioner or
by an occupational medical practitioner. The surveillance programme may
include:
 clinical examinations
 medical tests / screening
 biological monitoring
Spillage: the accidental discharge of concentrated cyanide, cyanidation slurry

or spent cyanide solution from a tanker, vessel or pipeline into any area which
is not a storage or process tank or a tailings dam. Accidental discharges into
bunded areas, spillage sumps and catchment ponds are all considered to be
spillages.
5
PRODUCT STEWARDSHIP GUIDANCE DOCUMENT

FOR CYANIDE
1 INTRODUCTION TO CYANIDE AND ITS USES
Cyanides play a vital part in a number of industries including the production of

chemicals, pharmaceuticals, gold mining and in metal treatment. Careful
control of their manufacture, sale, distribution, storage, use and final disposal
is essential even in the case of small samples.
Cyanide compounds are used to manufacture hundreds of everyday goods. It

is used in the mining industry to dissolve gold and silver (cyanide process);
potassium cyanide is used to achieve the blue colour on cast bronze
sculptures during the final finishing stages of the sculpture; and cyanides are
used as insecticides for fumigating ships.
Some other uses include:
 manufacture of jewellery, vitamin B12, adhesives, computer electronics,

fire retardants, cosmetics and dyes
 electroplating
A cyanide compound is any chemical compound that contains the cyano

group (C≡N), which consists of the carbon atom triple-bonded to a nitrogen
atom. In inorganic cyanides, the cyano group is the cyanide anion (negatively
charged ion). Such cyanides include solid cyanides (e.g. sodium cyanide or
potassium cyanide).
6
In organic cyanides, the cyano group is bonded to a hydrocarbon residue

(alkyl residue), e.g. methyl cyanide (CH 3CN) or acetonitrile. Organic cyanides
are called nitriles.
Of the many kinds of cyanide compounds, some are gases, others are solid or
liquids, and all those that can release the cyanide anion, CN -, are highly toxic.
Solid cyanides in contact with moisture or liquid cyanides in contact with acids
or strong oxidising agents results in the formation of hydrogen cyanic gas – a
very toxic gas for all forms of life:
All forms of cyanide are toxic and as with any chemical, it must be properly
and safely handled to avoid harm to people or the environment. The benefit
people derive from cyanide and its many products far outweigh the risk posed
to people and the environment. Cyanide does not pose a serious risk if
people working with the chemical are properly trained in its handling, storage,
7
transportation and use, and if the relevant equipment is specifically designed

and compatible with the specific characteristics and properties of cyanide.
This Guideline Document will supply information for the safe handling,
storage, transportation and use of this chemical throughout its life cycle. This
document will assist Responsible Care signatories to adopt cyanide safety
and stewardship initiatives. Such initiatives will ensure continuous
improvement to safety and contribute towards the protection of human health
and the environment during the production, distribution and use of cyanide
and cyanide containing chemicals.
Cyanide Compounds:
A variety of cyanide compounds are manufactured and used by the chemical,

mining and electroplating industries. Such compounds include:
- Crystalline/powdered potassium cyanide – used in laboratories,

insecticides, electroplating, photography and in organic synthesis
- Sodium cyanide solution – used in the mining industry for the leaching
of gold
- Crystalline/powdered/compressed (into briquettes) sodium cyanide –
also used in the mining industry
Other less common cyanide compounds are used by various other industries.
1. PROPERTIES OF CYANIDE
Manufacturers, their employees, and users of cyanide and cyanide containing

chemicals must be aware of the properties (physical and chemical) and
characteristics of this chemical which must be considered during risk
assessments to assist with the identification and implementation of
appropriate risk mitigation measures.
It is advised that the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) be consulted for the full set of
characteristics of this chemical including cyanide specific eco toxicity data.
The SDS for the specific cyanide compound should be obtained from the
supplier of the chemical/product.
The following characteristics of cyanide should be specifically noted:
1.1 Physical Properties:
8
There are several chemical forms of cyanide:
Gaseous
Hydrogen (HCN) gas will form from the liquid at temperatures above 25.6 ºC and is a
colourless gas at higher temperatures. It has a bitter almond odour although this
should not be relied upon as an indicator because some 40% of the population cannot
smell cyanide or the bitter almond characteristic smell. Hydrogen cyanide is
flammable/explosive and is miscible with water.
Solid
Both sodium cyanide and potassium cyanide are white to off-white crystalline
solids, similar in appearance to sugar. Sodium cyanide is commercially
available as briquettes, granular, powder and as aqueous solution. Potassium
cyanide is available in briquettes, granular and powder form. They may have
a bitter almond-like or ammonia odour in damp air, due to the presence of
hydrogen cyanide. Both compounds are soluble in water.
Cyanide salts or solutions are not combustible, but may generate highly toxic,
flammable, corrosive and explosive hydrogen cyanide gas if in contact with
water or when in contact with acidic compounds
Liquid
Some manufacturers supply cyanide in a liquid format, tailored to their

customer’s specific needs. For example, the gold mining industry in South
Africa makes use of sodium cyanide solution at concentration of between 28
– 34 % (depending upon the season) which is delivered by the manufacturer
in bulk road tankers directly to mine storage tanks. The appearance of the
liquid is turbid and straw to brown coloured and has a bitter almond odour
that is masked by an ammonia smell. The pH of the liquid is maintained
above 11 (strongly alkaline).
1.2 Chemical Properties:
Cyanide salts react with acids and produce a chemical reaction which forms
highly toxic hydrogen cyanide gas.
9
When cyanide salts come into contact with water or moisture, toxic hydrogen
cyanide gas will be released. Sodium cyanide solution will also slowly release
toxic hydrogen cyanide gas unless the pH is above 10.5.
Hydrogen cyanide gas is reactive when in contact with the following:
 Heat
 Oxidizers such as perchlorates
 Incompatible materials such as copper, zinc, magnesium, tin and
aluminium (or their alloys e.g. brass, bronze, and galvanised metals)
 Peroxides
 Strong acids such as hydrochloric, sulphuric and nitric acids
 Sodium hydroxide
 Acetaldehydes
 Ammonia
 Amines
Hydrogen cyanide may polymerise at 50 – 60 ºC. Polymerisation can occur

violently in the presence of heat, alkaline materials or moisture.
1.3 Cyanide Stability:
Sodium cyanide is stable when kept in a tightly closed, impervious container.
Cyanide salts dissolve readily in water, yielding the metal cation (Na +) and the
cyanide anion (CN-). Some of the cyanide ion then converts into hydrogen
cyanide (HCN). The most toxic form of cyanide both to humans and aquatic
life if ingested is free cyanide, which includes the cyanide anion itself (CN-)
and hydrogen cyanide (HCN), either in a gaseous or aqueous state. The
relative amounts of both forms of free cyanide are largely controlled by the
pH1 of the water.
The cyanide ion (CN-) is the predominant stable form of free cyanide above a
pH of about 9.2. As the pH drops, pH 1 – 10.5
increasing amounts of CN - convert to
hydrogen cyanide. The percentage of HCN continues to increase as the pH
drops further, until at a pH of 7.0, about 99FORMS
CYANIDE % of the A
cyanide
GAS exists as HCN. At
a pH below 7.0, essentially all dissolved cyanide is present as HCN. HCN
readily forms a gas. If solutions are kept at a pH above 10.5, the formation of
DANGER – HCN IS FORMED
HCN is prevented and over 99% of the cyanide remains in solution as CN -.
pH 10.5 – 14
10
CYANIDE REMAINS IN SOLUTION
HCN IS NOT FORMED

1. pH is a scale designed to measure the acidity or alkalinity of materials.

Caution should be taken as the agitation of cyanide solutions and the resulting
contact of the solution with moisture, could lead to the release of HCN even at
a pH higher than 10.5.
Free cyanide forms readily and reacts within a few hours to a few days with
almost any other chemicals they contact, producing a wide variety of new
compounds. Such compounds are often categorized as simple cyanide
compounds, cyanide complexes, and cyanide-related compounds.
2. HAZARDS OF CYANIDE
Safety in the production, handling, storage and transportation of

cyanide compounds and hydrogen cyanide (collectively referred to as
cyanide in the remainder of this document) is of paramount
importance.
Although cyanide is a relatively toxic compound, it has been safely

manufactured and used for well over 100 years around the world. Despite
its hazards, cyanide does not have to be a serious risk to those that handle
the chemical or to the environment if appropriate safety practices are
effectively implemented.
3.1 Health Hazards:
It is important to note that exposure to cyanide can occur through:
 inhalation of vapour, dust and gas

 ingestion
11
 eye or skin contact

 absorption through the skin, eyes, and mucus membranes.
Cyanide is a fast acting poison in the human body and causes chemical
suffocation. Although the time, dose and manner of exposure may differ, the
biochemical action of cyanide is the same upon entering the body. Once in
the bloodstream, it affects the body’s ability to use the oxygen that you
breathe by inhibiting the tissue enzyme cytochrome oxidase. The organs
especially sensitive to cyanide damage are those whose function depends
on adequate supply of oxygen, i.e. the heart and brain.
For this reason, it is important to provide medical oxygen to an exposed

patient as quickly as possible to offset the actions. Severe breathing
difficulties develop very quickly when cyanide is swallowed, inhaled or
absorbed through the skin.
Inhalation of the gas or exposure to the chemical should be prevented at all

times. The following hazards to human health should be noted:
 Hydrogen cyanide can cause rapid death due to metabolic asphyxiation

 Exposure to high levels of cyanide for a short time harms the brain and
heart and can result in coma or death.
Exposure:
The effects of cyanide on human health depend on both the concentration

and the length and frequency of the exposure. Effects occur extremely
rapidly following exposure. After inhalation exposure, symptoms begin within
seconds to minutes. After skin exposure, onset of symptoms may be
immediate or delayed for 30 to 60 minutes. Ingestion of cyanide compounds
or gas can be rapidly fatal. The time of onset of effects depends on
concentration, body surface area exposed and duration of exposure. It is
important to note that irrespective of the level of exposure, immediate
treatment is required.
The toxicity of cyanide to humans is dependent on the nature of the

exposure. Due to the variability of dose-response effects between
individuals, the toxicity of a substance is typically expressed as the
concentration or dose that is lethal to 50% of the exposed population (LC 50
or LD50). The LC50 for gaseous hydrogen cyanide is 100-300 parts per
million. Inhalation of cyanide in this range results in death within 10-60
minutes, with death coming more quickly as the concentration increases.
Inhalation of 2,000 parts per million hydrogen cyanide causes death within
12
one minute. The LD50 for ingestion is 50-200 milligrams, or 1-3 milligrams per
kilogram of body weight, calculated as hydrogen cyanide. For contact with
unabraded skin, the LD50 is 100 milligrams (as hydrogen cyanide) per
kilogram of body weight.
The table below supplies the potential fatal levels of HCN gas:
Short term (less than 8 hours) exposure:

Some of the first indications and symptoms of cyanide poisoning occur
quickly and include:
 headaches
 rapid breathing
 light-headedness
 nausea
 feeling of neck constriction and suffocation
 confusion, restlessness and anxiety
 skin irritation
 weakness of limbs.
13
Severe cyanide poisoning progresses to:
 vomiting
 coma
 muscle spasms
 convulsions (seizures)
 fixed and dilated pupils
 death
Skin exposure causes irritation. The irritation experienced is often related to

the caustic or lime added to the cyanide to maintain high pH rather than the
cyanide itself. Absorption through the skin is rapid and can contribute to
whole-body (systemic) toxicity. It occurs more readily when ambient
temperature and relative humidity are high and when workers may be
undertaking strenuous physical activities.
Sodium cyanide solution causes eye burns which may lead to irreparable
damage and loss of sight.
Chronic Exposure:
The uncontrolled long term exposure (over a period of years) to low levels
of cyanide could result in increased blood cyanide levels and is reported to
cause loss of appetite, headache, weakness, nausea, dizziness and
symptoms of irritation of the upper respiratory tract (e.g. nasal sores) and
eyes.
Other effects include mild liver and kidney damage breathing difficulties,
chest pain, vomiting and enlargement of the thyroid gland. Prolonged or
repeated skin exposures may cause a rash.
When the appropriate safety procedures are followed and safety equipment
is used, no symptoms of chronic exposure will be evident.
Exposure limits:
14
The current South African Occupational Health and Safety Act Hazardous
Chemical Substances Regulations specify a Short Term Occupational
Exposure Limit – Control Limit for hydrogen cyanide as 10 ppm (10
milligrams per cubic meter (mg/m 3) as an 8-hour time-weighted average
(TWA) concentration.
Low levels of cyanide are found in nature and in products we commonly eat
e.g. spinach, bamboo shoots, almonds, fruit pits and tapioca. Once it is in
your lungs or stomach, cyanide can quickly enter the bloodstream. Some of
the cyanide is changed to thiocyanate, which is less harmful and leaves the
body in the urine. A small amount of cyanide is converted in the body to
carbon dioxide, which leaves the body in the breath. At low levels of
exposure to cyanide compounds, most of the cyanide and its products leave
the body within the first 24 hours after exposure as the body is able to break
cyanide down into non-toxic products - cyanide is not a cumulative poison.
However, in large doses, the body’s ability to change cyanide into
thiocyanate is overwhelmed. Large doses of cyanide prevent cells from
using oxygen and eventually these cells die. The heart, respiratory system
and central nervous system are most susceptible to cyanide poisoning.
1.4 Environmental Hazards:
Cyanide processes, solutions and waste streams must be managed to

protect the environment. If not appropriately managed as per the standing
operating procedures and legislative requirements, the environment may be
adversely affected.
Cyanide can enter the air, water and soil through industrial activities. In air,
cyanide is mainly found as hydrogen cyanide and a small amount can be
present as fine dust particles. Most of the cyanide in surface water will form
hydrogen cyanide.
Cyanide is fairly mobile in soil and can be transformed into other chemical
forms by microorganisms in the soil. At high concentrations, cyanide will be
toxic to the soil’s micro-organisms resulting in the cyanide passing into
groundwater and not being transformed into other less harmful chemicals.
When negative environmental impacts occur, approved clean-up and
rehabilitation processes need to be initiated.
Although cyanide reacts readily in the environment and degrades or forms

complexes and salts of varying stabilities, it is toxic to many living organisms
at very low concentrations. The sensitivity of aquatic organisms to cyanide is
15
highly species specific, and is also affected by water pH, temperature and
oxygen content, as well as the life stage and condition of the organism.
Cyanide has low persistence in the environment and is not accumulated or

stored in any mammal studied. There is no reported bio magnification of
cyanide in the food chain. Although chronic cyanide intoxication exists,
cyanide has a low chronic toxicity. Repeated sub lethal doses of cyanide
seldom result in cumulative adverse effects. Many species can tolerate
cyanide in substantial yet sub lethal intermittent doses for long periods of
time.
3. SAFE STORAGE OF CYANIDE
Cyanide storage and packaging containers shall conform to the requirements

of the international Cyanide Management Code and Packaging Group 1
(substances that present a high danger) under SANS 10228 - The
identification and classification of dangerous goods for transport and
SANS 310 – Storage tank facilities for hazardous chemicals — Above-
ground storage tank facilities for flammable, combustible and non-
flammable chemicals, and other industry best practice standards applicable
to cyanide.
Strict compliance with these requirements are meant to ensure that the
packaging containers undergo rigorous maintenance and testing, and that
they are robust enough to withstand transport incidents and minimise the risk
of product release.
Appropriate labelling must be displayed on all cyanide packaging.
4.1 Storage Drums
Different kinds of drums can be used for the storage and transport of solid
cyanides. Drums are available for containing 50 and 100 kg of material.
Metal and plastic drums are used worldwide. Drums are normally used in
applications where batch size is small to medium (in electroplating and
chemical synthesis).
Drums should be airtight under normal pressure conditions so that no air

can enter the drum even over longer storage periods. Also, no gases from
inside the drum should escape from the drum.
16
Ensure that cyanide containing drums are always stored in a designated

and well-ventilated area.
4.2 Big Bags
This type of packaging for solid cyanides is usually found in gold mining and
large industrial chemical synthesis applications. It is best practice to
transport big bags containing solid cyanide in timber crates.
4.3 Storage Tanks
Cyanide storage facilities including tanks must be designed according to the

applicable standards and legislative requirements e.g. SANS 310, API and
ASMI.
Advice should be sought from the product manufacturer or supplier.
Storage tanks and associated equipment should be constructed of approved

materials of construction to an appropriate nationally recognised standard of
good engineering practice and be located at ground level in the open air.
Welding practices must also comply with the national engineering standards
All tanks should be surrounded by a fully impervious bund capable of

containing 110% of the volume of the tank. Where more than one tank is
surrounded by the same bund, the bund capacity should be 110% of the
contents of the largest tank. For two or more tanks connected, for
simultaneous use, the capacities of the tanks are added together and
regarded as one vessel.
Bunds filled with spilled or leaked cyanide liquids should be emptied. A safe
way of dealing with the spilt product is to install a sump at the lowest point in
the bund. The sump should be fitted with a pump that pumps the cyanide
solution back to the process or to an appropriate neutralisation or disposal
location. Caution should be taken not to try and “mop up” a cyanide spill in a
closed bund or releasing the spillage through an outlet pipe designed to
handle storm water. All cyanide spillages should be handled according to the
specific plant operating procedure.
17
Mild steel is the preferred material for the construction of storage tanks and
associated pumps and pipe work. Stainless steel can be used as a
substitute for mild steel.
Storage tanks should be provided with a suitable means of determining

liquid level within the tank without needing to open tank hatches. It is
recommended that cyanide storage tanks be equipped with high level alarm
that will sound to prevent over-filling.
Each vessel should ideally be supported on an impervious concrete plinth.

All storage tanks must be fenced to prevent unauthorised entry. Access to
the storage area should be through a lockable gate. Access should be
controlled and authorised. It is recommended that the “buddy system” be
implemented when accessing the bunded area of the storage area.
Storage tanks must have permanent hazmat labels indicating the UN

number of the product and the emergency contact number (e.g. standard
dangerous goods label; 1689 – for solids).
It is important to note that mild steel may absorb sodium cyanide from
solution. This cyanide can be slowly released when the steel is no longer in
contact with sodium cyanide solution. During maintenance or demolition
procedures storage tanks and associated equipment should be made gas
free and monitored during the maintenance process.
Pumps, tanks, electric motors and all parts of the system must be effectively
earthed to prevent accumulation of static electric charge.
4.4 Storage areas for cyanide containers:
Storage areas must comply with the requirements specified in Appendix 1.

Fully enclosed storage areas for cyanide must be treated as a hazardous
area. Appropriate PPE must be worn when entering the storage area.
All storage facilities must be well ventilated and must be protected against the
infiltration of water (rain, storm water, etc.).
Sufficient emergency escape routes must be provided.
Access control measures must be implemented for all storage areas and
applicable signage must be displayed at all entrance points.
18
No drainage from the storage area must be allowed to flow into the site’s
storm water system
4.5 Safety Rules for the Storage of Cyanide:
Box 1 supplies basic rules applicable to the storage of cyanide containers that
must be adhered to:
BOX 1 – RULES FOR CYANIDE STORAGE
 Store cyanide in a well-ventilated, cool and dry area

 Never store cyanides together with acids, acid salts, weak alkalis, oxidising agents
 Never store cyanides together with materials or items for human consumption such as
food, beverages and smoking material
 Store cyanides separately from flammable material to avoid involvement in fire
 The manager of the storage area must keep a detailed inventory of stored cyanide
 Written record of receipt and removal of cyanides must be kept and contain date and time
of receipt or removal as well as quantities and the name of the persons/company
delivering or receiving the stock STORAGE
 Only quantities required for immediate use should be removed from storage
 Containers should be protected from physical damage
 Restrict access to the storage area and secure the access to the storage area with a lock
so that only designated personnel have access to the area
 Inspections of cyanide storage areas and facilities must be conducted monthly
 Stock rotation should be on a FIFO (First In – First Out) basis
 Appropriate storage practices must be in place as per the legal requirements
Due to the corrosive nature of sodium cyanide, the off-loading bay and bund
should be constructed of a solid impervious material.
It is recommended that facilities that handle or store cyanide develop a

comprehensive inspection checklist that can be used for monthly (or as per
the site’s internal inspection requirements) cyanide storage, handling, and off-
loading areas. The checklist in Appendix 1 can be used for such purposes.
The inspection routine should also include preventative maintenance at

appropriate frequencies.
19
4. SAFE HANDLING OF CYANIDE
5.1 Loading and Off-loading of cyanide
It is good practice to use a “buddy” system during the handling of cyanide.
Cyanide loading and off-loading facilities should be located away from

surface waters and be located in a catchment area for liquid loading and off-
loading., This area should be fenced, access-controlled and within the
boundaries of the facility.
All offloading activities must be supervised by trained and authorised

personnel.
Standard operating procedures must be available for loading and off-loading

and must supply specific instructions for specific tasks, for example cyanide
dissolution and transfer to storage tanks.
It is recommended that formal inspections of cyanide off-loading facilities be

conducted at least monthly (or as per the site’s internal inspection
requirements). It is good practice to utilise an inspection checklist to verify
and record the findings applicable to the facilities before any loading or off-
loading commences. The checklist should be signed off by both the
competent person and the driver of the vehicle involved with the loading/off-
loading. See Appendix 1 for a checklist applicable to cyanide off-loading.
Emergency response plans and procedures must be in place for all cyanide
facilities/operations. Emergency equipment shall be readily available in the
event of an emergency situation. Personnel must be trained and declared
competent in the use of such equipment.
Loading and off-loading equipment and systems should be compatible with

the transporter’s vehicles. Off-loading hoses and couplings should be product
specific.
Appropriate PPE must be worn during the loading and off-loading process.
Facilities must ensure that all cyanide safety systems and equipment are well
maintained and in good operating condition.
20
5.2 Product Handling:
Working with cyanides demands great caution and strict adherence to all
safety requirements. The safety advice provided in the Safety Data Sheet or
additional producer’s guidelines will be important additional information.
The use of formal procedures, drawn up after undertaking risk assessments

on the task to be carried out, and checked by regular Planned Task
Observations, are viewed as best practice and considered the safest way of
minimising risk. Personnel shall be trained, re-trained and declared
competent in these procedures. All personnel handling cyanides must be
trained in its safe use and be fully acquainted with its nature and hazards.
Personnel should never work alone (“Buddy System”) with cyanides so that in
case of danger or an accident, help can be provided. It is recommended that
alarm mechanisms be installed so that help can be called, if necessary.
Although the presence of cyanide can sometimes be recognised by its

characteristic odour and its irritant effect on the tongue, nose, throat and
larynx, the most reliable indication of the presence of hydrocyanic gas can be
provided with suitable portable/personal gas detectors that can be used in
conjunction with fixed gas detectors.
Box 2 illustrates safety requirements for working with cyanides that should be
strictly adhered to:
BOX 2: SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
 A notice dealing with precautions to be observed when handling cyanide should be

prominently displayed in the handling and storage areas.
 The Safety Data Sheet must be available.
 No food, beverages or smoking materials should be stored in rooms where cyanide is
stored or processed.
 When handling cyanide, do not eat, drink, smoke, use snuff or chew gum.
 Always plan every operation before proceeding. Select and use suitable tools, equipment
and PPE to minimise exposure.
 Cyanide packaging should always be opened as close to the point of use as possible.
 Cyanide containers should be opened in well ventilated areas.
 Always wear the correct PPE during the handling of cyanide.
 Avoid any contact with cyanide. If any cyanide is spilt on clothes and personal protective
equipment, this equipment must be removed and decontaminated.
 All decontamination activities must be conducted as per the decontamination procedures.
 All cyanide contaminated water/effluent must be contained and treated/disposed of
appropriately.
 Standard operating procedures for the facility must be followed and adhered to.
 Personnel must be well trained in the execution of the facilities emergency procedures.
 Frequent emergency exercises must be conducted by the facility.
21
When a person is accidentally contaminated with cyanide, medical advice

should be immediately sought as a precautionary measure.
All areas that have been contaminated with cyanide must be cleaned
thoroughly and/or rehabilitated as applicable.
Safety showers, eye wash stations and first aid equipment should be located
in all cyanide handling areas and all personnel should be trained in their use.
5.3 Opening of drums:
Caution should be taken when drums are opened. It is possible that HCN
gas, NH3 (ammonia) and/or dust may escape from the drums. Precautions
should be taken to avoid exposure.
Evaporation of the gas in concentrations and amounts dangerous to people is

not very likely when the drums are opened for the first time after delivery. It is
however more likely if the material is not used completely after the first
opening and is closed again. In this case, humid air can enter the drum and
carbon dioxide can react with the cyanide to form HCN. Water from air may
lead to the further hydrolysis of cyanide and ammonia (NH 3) may also form in
the drum.
It is recommended that the weather be carefully considered before

undertaking the opening of drums, or any cyanide related activities in the
open air. Rain could contain mild carbonic acid and could result in the
generation of HCN gas, if it comes into contact with cyanide.
5.4 Packaging Disposal:
All methods of decontamination, including incineration and the use of

neutralisation chemicals should be considered in risk assessments for
decontaminating obsolete or redundant equipment and or packaging.
Companies are encouraged to ensure that a good “paper trail” is in place

demonstrating good practice/due process and careful judgement to ensure
that if accidents occur, the company has implemented all reasonable
22
measure to minimise the risk. Risk assessments are company and site
specific and should be carefully checked and documented.
Drums that contained cyanide salts (solids) can be decontaminated by rinsing

thoroughly with water in a designated area. After the drums have been
washed free from cyanide, they may be disposed of by compacting the drums
and then sent for smelting.
Never re-use the drums for any other purpose after emptying and
decontamination.
Rinse water resulting from the decontamination of cyanide packaging should

be recycled in the process, where possible, or treated, where necessary.
5. CYANIDE SAFETY EQUIPMENT
In order to protect workers against cyanide exposure and to protect the

environment from pollution and contamination, suitable safety equipment
should be available on all sites that manufacture, store or use cyanides.
Safety equipment should include:
 Medical oxygen
 Fire fighting equipment
 Personal protective equipment
 Cyanide detection monitors
 Emergency equipment – e.g. eye wash facilities, safety showers and
stretchers
 Other specialised equipment e.g. self-contained breathing apparatus,
first aid equipment and respiratory equipment.
6.1 Fire Fighting Equipment:
Non-acidic dry powder extinguishers must be located at strategic locations

throughout the operation where cyanide is present. Never use carbon dioxide.
Fires can also be extinguished with water spray or fog. Do not use straight
streams of water. Caution should be taken in such instances as hydrogen
cyanide gas will be generated and special precautions will have to be
implemented to deal with cyanide-contaminated run-off water.
For small fires, use dry chemical extinguishers.
23
6.2 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
Workers should use appropriate personal protective clothing and equipment

that must be carefully selected, used, and maintained to be effective in
preventing skin contact with cyanide or inhalation of cyanide gas. The
selection of the appropriate PPE (e.g. PVC long sleeved gloves,
encapsulating suits, boots, etc.) should be based on the extent of the
worker’s potential exposure to the cyanide.
Workers should use the following PPE as required by the facilities standard
operating procedures:
 safety glasses
 long sleeved PVC gloves
 PVC boots
 hooded overalls with aprons (solids)
 full face shields
 masks and respirators
 chemical resistant overall (liquid cyanide)
 PVC suits during emergencies and off-loading
 hard hats
Note: PVC suit sleeves must be tucked over the elbow length PVC glove
and pants legs cuffs tucked over the gumboots.
It’s important that the airborne concentration is periodically measured as

changes in the workplace (e.g. operational procedures) may affect the
concentration.
Any chemical-resistant clothing that is used should be periodically evaluated

to determine its effectiveness in preventing dermal contact and its
24
appropriateness for withstanding the rigorous of tasks without tearing,

splitting or deterioration. Chemical-resistant clothing is not chemical proof
and cannot sustain prolonged exposure. It offers the body short term
protection from for example cyanide solution getting onto the skin.
Employers should provide lockers or other closed areas to store work and
street clothing separately. Employers should collect work clothing as per the
facility procedure for its laundering. Laundry personnel should be informed
about the potential hazards of handling contaminated clothing and instructed
about measures to minimize their health risk.
Emergency situation respiratory protection:
Full-face masks with appropriate filter should be used in a case of evacuation

events. The filter must be discarded once it has been used. In the event of an
emergency, self-contained breathing apparatus should be used by the
emergency rescue team.
6.3 Cyanide Detection Monitors:
It is recommended that cyanide leak detection and monitoring systems (with

sound and visual warnings) be installed to warn personnel about a possible
leakage in production, storage or loading/unloading areas in order to enable
them to take appropriate action and protect the environment.
The most reliable indication of the presence of cyanide can be provided with
suitable gas detectors. It is recommended that gas detectors be located in the
off-loading and storage areas. Detectors should be designed to sound a high
audible evacuation alarm and initiate a flashing light if the airborne cyanide
concentration reaches the worker exposure limits prescribed by the SA
Occupational Health and Safety Act. Alarms should cater for the various
emergency conditions e.g. fire, spill or gas release respectively and be
included in the facility’s emergency action plan.
Alarms should be loud enough for all personnel working in noisy areas to
hear. Where an operation has a manned operational control room or security
control room, it may also be good practice to have alarms repeat in the control
rooms to remotely alert any abnormalities.
25
For activities that cover a wide area or are not fixed by location, consideration
should also be given to equipping workers with personal/portable gas
detectors.
Gas detection equipment must only be purchased from approved suppliers

and be suitable for the intended purpose
Gas detectors must be calibrated and certified as per the product

requirement. Gas detectors must be maintained according to the supplier
specifications.
A monitoring system can also be used for the automatic closing of valves to
isolate cyanide-containing equipment in the case of a release or leak. This
unit should be calibrated and tested at regular intervals and documented.
6.4 Emergency Equipment:
First Aid Kits and medical oxygen should be immediately available in

workplaces where there is a potential for the release of cyanide.
In addition, physician’s kits should be available to trained medical personnel.

Cyanide antidotes should only be administered by appropriately trained and
authorised personnel. These kits may contain amyl nitrite ampules as well as
sterile sodium thiosulphate solution (25%). All of the above drugs should be
replaced at a frequency recommended by manufacturers, and stored in
fridges, where appropriate, to ensure their potency. First aid kits must be
routinely inspected by qualified or trained personnel to ensure that the
required equipment and materials are available and in good condition.
First aid policy and procedures for response to cyanide exposure shall be
compiled by the facility medical practitioner and shall be included in the site’s
emergency action plan.
Other emergency equipment recommended includes:
 medical oxygen and resuscitator

 “space” or thermal blankets for treating patients for shock
 low pressure safety showers/eye wash stations
 high strength plastic bags/containers for contaminated clothing and
equipment
26
It is recommended that a site plan be prepared and posted in strategic

locations and all major cyanide work areas showing the locations of safety
equipment.
6. EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
Workers, communities and the environment should be protected through the

development of emergency response strategies and capabilities. The
measures in the event of cyanide emergencies or accidents should be
carefully prepared and should be regularly tested and updated. Development
of site specific potential exposure scenarios through risk assessment is a
good means of developing accurate and site appropriate cyanide emergency
response plans.
All workers should be familiar with emergency procedures, the location and
proper use of emergency equipment and the various methods of protecting
themselves during emergency response operations.
Facilities that handle, use, manufacture or store cyanide must:
 Prepare detailed emergency response plans for potential releases

 Develop and implement a communication strategy for the emergency
action plan
 Designate personnel and commit the necessary equipment and
resources for emergency response
 Develop and maintain an appropriate emergency response equipment
inspection regime to ensure that equipment is maintained and available
 Develop internal and external emergency notification and reporting
 Incorporate into response plans monitoring elements and remediation
measures that account for the additional hazards of using cyanide
treatment chemicals
 Periodically evaluate response procedures and capabilities and revise
them as needed.
It is important that a list of all relevant emergency contact phone numbers be

available at a number of locations in the plant or office. The list should
include the
 Site specific emergency contact numbers

 Local fire department
 Police department
 Local hospital/clinic
27
 Product specialist or supplier

 Traffic department
 Department of Environment and Water Affairs
Off-site emergency services should be informed of the possible hazards

associated with cyanide stored or handled on a facility so that they can be
prepared in the case of an emergency.
7.1 Emergency Action Plans:
It is important to ensure that fire fighting, first aid and Hazmat personnel are
trained in cyanide awareness and cyanide emergency procedures. A written
Emergency Preparedness and Spill Contingency Plan should be developed
and unscheduled drills of emergency situations, that include simulating
worker exposure and environmental releases, where the plan is executed,
should be conducted at least annually. The plan should include:
 Evacuation and/or shelter plans from areas where cyanide releases

could occur
 Allocation of responsibilities during emergency incidents
 An alarm plan for events without off-site consequences
 An alert plan for incidents with potential off-site consequences outside of
the plants/facility limits. This plan has to be developed in co-operation
with the local authorities, fire and other emergency services.
Emergency simulation drills results should be evaluated from a training

perspective to confirm that personnel have the knowledge and skills required
for rapid, safe and effective response. Records of any drills must be retained
as specified by the facilities internal procedures.
It is good practice to document learning points from drills and develop action
plans to correct and identify deviations and weaknesses.
Evaluate the effectiveness of the corrective actions implemented.
7.2 Procedures in the Case of Cyanide Exposure:
Before attempting to treat or move a potential cyanide patient, remember the

golden rule “Raise the alarm, protect yourself and call for assistance”.
Try and establish, if possible, what type of cyanide exposure has occurred,
e.g. gassing, splashing, ingestion, absorption, as responses and associated
risks are dictated by the type of exposure.
28
When treating cyanide exposure, move the patient from the point of exposure
to a safe area and fresh air and begin first aid treatment, administer medical
oxygen and decontaminate. Obtain medical assistance as soon as possible.
To decontaminate, remove the patient’s contaminated clothing (or all clothing

when in doubt with due consideration for the patient’s dignity) and thoroughly
rinse the patient’s body and hair with water. Flush the patient’s eyes with large
amounts of water or saline solution. Double-bag contaminated clothing in
plastic after removal to prevent further exposure.
Only trained and appropriately authorised medical and emergency response

personnel should administer cyanide antidotes. Medical oxygen must be
given by a trained and competent first responder before medical help arrives.
Note: speed is essential and immediate medical attention must be obtained.
Skin Contact:
In case of skin contact, firstly remove contaminated clothing and rinse skin
with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. Obtain medical attention.
Ingestion:
Be aware that ingested cyanide, when it comes into contact with stomach
acid, will generate HCN gas.
Administer medical oxygen and call for medical assistance.
Note: do not induce vomiting when cyanide has been ingested. If vomiting
occurs, keep head lower than the hips to help prevent aspiration.
Unconscious Patients:
The patient must be placed in the recovery position and their airway cleared.
Administer medical oxygen and monitor the patient’s heart and pulse rates.
Do not administer mouth to mouth resuscitation. Only resuscitate the patient

with the appropriate medical equipment if required.
7.3 Cyanide Leaks and Spills:
Cyanide spills must be prevented from coming into contact with people, the
environment and waterways.
29
Box 3 contains information on the important aspects to look at after a cyanide

spill to soil:
BOX 3: CYANIDE SPILLS TO SOIL
 Acidic soils may cause HCN release after contact with cyanide spills
 To prevent HCN formation neutralisation of the acidic soil pH with lime is recommended
 Pumping out a liquid spill may not be suitable in some cases but could be a good option if
appropriate.
 It is always necessary to continuously measure the HCN content in the air when dealing
with a cyanide spills
 All the cyanide contaminated soil has to be removed as it is a permanent threat to ground
water and surface run-off water
 Cyanide dust resulting from solid spills is a serious risk as it could deposit on adjacent
plants and vegetation
 Any contact with water sources must be avoided in the case of the spillage of solid
cyanide (HCN gas will be generated and highly concentrated cyanide liquid will be
present)
 Liquid spillages may be contained with solid absorbents in order to prevent further
spreading to uncontaminated soil (take note that the absorbent material does not
neutralise the cyanide)
 Contaminated soil, waste and absorbents must be transported to a suitable treatment
(detoxification) or waste disposal site
 Contaminated areas must be covered with plastic sheets to minimize air and rain contact
and reduce/prevent HCN emissions from the soil surface
 Clean-up and rehabilitation of cyanide spills and sites must only be done by professional
service providers that specialise in the clean-up of hazardous chemicals
In case of spillage, urgent action needs to be taken to minimise harm

originated by the spilled material. Consideration must be given to the
following:
30
 Appropriate PPE must be worn

 Safety personnel must immediately be notified
 All sources of heat and ignition must be removed
 Potential explosive atmospheres must be ventilated
 The spilled material must not be touched or walked through
 Non-sparking tools must be used
 Small liquid spills can be cleaned up with sand or other non-combustible
absorbent material and placed in closed containers for later disposal
 HCN must be prevented from accumulating in confined spaces such as
sewers due to the possibility of an explosion
Any spills within the facilities containment areas should be captured in

containment sumps and returned to appropriate locations in the facility’s
processes. Containment areas associated with cleaned-up spills should be
washed into containment sumps, from which the collected effluent can be
pumped back to the process.
Spill sites must be secured as soon as possible and air quality monitoring
initiated where applicable. Down-wind residential areas should be notified and
evacuated in conjunction with the local emergency services where
appropriate.
It is recommended that a set of basic procedures and information be provided

to authorities or service providers to assist in the efficient clean-up and
emergency response.
Joint incident/accident response plans must be compiled with all stakeholders

(e.g. ER service providers, emergency services and governmental
organisations).
Cyanide spills in flowing natural water courses:
Depending on numerous parameters, a cyanide spill (liquid as well as solid)

to flowing natural waters would almost likely create a diffused plug
contaminated with an unknown amount and concentration of cyanide. This
plug would flow down a river with the river flow speed. In this case the
cyanide concentration can only be reduced to a non-hazardous concentration
by dilution with additional amounts of water which must be effectively mixed
with the plug.
31
The plug can be transported for long distances and will pose an acute threat
particularly to fauna life forms (particularly micro-organisms) in the river, until
the cyanide concentration is diluted below critical levels.
7.4 Disposal of Cyanide Containing Waste:
Disposal of cyanide waste should be in accordance with local, regional and

national legislation. Contaminated absorbent must be removed and disposed
via an authorised waste contractor. All cyanide waste will be hazardous and
must be treated accordingly.
7. CYANIDE INCIDENTS AND INVESTIGATIONS
The incident investigation process should be carried out as per the facility
specific processes and methodologies.
All cyanide related incidents and near misses that resulted or could have
resulted in an uncontrolled release should be thoroughly investigated.
Investigations should be initiated as promptly as possible. An investigation
team should be established and a report should be prepared. The report
should include as a minimum:
 A description of the incident

 The root cause of the incident
 Factors contributing to the incident
 The preventative and corrective actions to be taken and relevant
follow-ups to the changes should be done. (A documented change
management process should be followed)
 Measures to be taken to alleviate the medium- and long-term effects of
the incident
The report should be reviewed by the management responsible for the safety
standards in the facility.
8. PERSONNEL TRAINING
The safe handling of hazardous chemicals like cyanide depends upon the
effectiveness of employee education, proper safety instructions, good
supervision and the effective use of safety equipment. Training of new
employees should take place to ensure the required knowledge, skills and
abilities are obtained before the employee is involved in the operating
process.
32
Refresher training or competency assessment of current employees should

take place periodically (e.g. annually) in order to maintain a high degree of
safety in cyanide handling procedures. Reinforcement of cyanide awareness
is crucial and refresher courses play an important role in ensuring cyanide
competency.
Employees should also be informed of the hazards that result from the
improper handling of cyanide. They should be cautioned to prevent releases
or spills and thoroughly instructed regarding the proper action to take if
emergencies do occur. Each employee should know what to do in case of an
emergency and should be fully informed as to the appropriate first aid
measures.
Box 4 indicates what the employee training should encompass.
BOX 4: EMPLOYEE TRAINING COMPONENTS
 A site specific awareness of cyanide, its characteristics, properties and risks

 The potential risk to health caused by exposure
 The necessity of personal air sampling and medical surveillance
 Safe work procedures regarding the use, handling, storage and labelling of cyanide
 Safe handling of cyanide containers

 Location of emergency and fire fighting equipment
 Procedures to be followed in case of a spill, leak or accident
 Alarms (emergency/evacuation)
 Emergency shut-down equipment
 Location, proper use and care of PPE (including respiratory first aid equipment)
 Operating procedures
 Changes in process technology or facilities
 Safety showers, eye baths and the closest source of emergency water
 Avoiding the inhalation of HCN and direct contact with the gas
 Reporting of incidents involving leaks and equipment failures to management and the
authorities
 The importance of good housekeeping and personal hygiene
 Local legal requirements pertaining to hazardous substances
 How to access the SDS
 Main findings of risk assessments
 Possible incompatibility of cyanide and other chemicals that may be present on site
 Safe loading and off-loading procedures
 Include all on-site service providers and non-permanent employees dealing with cyanide
and that may come into contact with cyanide in the training
33
Any training should be documented and training records should be kept

indefinitely. It is recommended that training records include the names of the
employees, the trainer, the date of training, topics covered and the employee
proficiency test results.
Drivers and service providers that transport bulk or packaged cyanide must be
specifically selected, trained and authorised to drive vehicles transporting
cyanide.
They must be trained in the:
 appropriate driving standards for dangerous goods

 properties of cyanide
 emergency procedures should an incident occur on the road
 national road safety requirements
 National Road Traffic legislation requirements for dangerous goods
 site as well as loading and off-loading procedures.
It is recommended that transporters/logistics service providers be carefully

selected on the basis of their safety and security commitment and record as
well as commercial factors. Because of the specific hazards associated with
cyanide, logistical service providers should be experienced in the
transportation and storage of cyanides and must comply with the SA Safety
Quality Assessment System (SA SQAS).
Site emergency personnel who may be called upon to respond to workplace

exposure to cyanide should be trained in first aid and emergency procedures
noted in the facility’s emergency preparedness plan. The process for notifying
appropriate site personnel and the actions to be taken to ensure the
responders own protection through cyanide-specific PPE must also be
included in training.
It is recommended that workers designated as Emergency Response

Coordinators and members of Emergency Response Teams receive
specialised cyanide-related emergency response training and that they pass a
written and practical test to ensure their understanding of the subject matter
covered. It is also recommended that emergency response teams include
qualified medical staff or other trained personnel who will be authorised to
administer cyanide antidotes, if required.
34
9. CYANIDE SIGNAGE
To ensure that the area and those working in the area are safe, the following
signs and labels must be displayed:
 Symbolic safety signs e.g. no smoking or naked flames, PPE to be

worn
 Wall charts
 Warning signs
 Globally Harmonised System for the Classification and Labelling of
Chemicals (GHS) labels indicating that cyanide is harmful to health
and the environment and that it is acutely toxic
 Indication of where fire fighting equipment, medical oxygen and first
aid kit is
Warning signs must be placed on perimeter fencing and in all areas where
cyanide is stored or used to alert workers that cyanide is present. It is also
recommended that emergency posters be displayed to inform employees of
the handling and working precautions necessary to be effective and safe.
For transportation of cyanide the labelling must be in compliance with the
relevant and applicable national standards as indicated in Section 11.
The following warning signs must be displayed at the storage area to inform
employees of the hazardous nature of the stored cyanide reagent:
 No entry to unauthorised persons

 No smoking
 No eating
 No naked flames
 Protective clothing to be worn
 Warning of toxic and corrosive substances
 Route direction signs
 Road information signage markings
 Gas detection equipment
 Cyanide first-aid treatment procedures
Figures 2.1 – 2.4 illustrate cyanide warning signs that can be used in on-site
storage and handling areas:
FIGURE 2.1
35
FIGURE 2.2
FIGURE 2.3
DANGER
CYANIDE
36
FIGURE 2.4
All tanks and piping containing cyanide must be identified either by colour
coding or by signs, labels, tags or decals to alert workers regarding their
content. Labels, signs, tags, arrows or other means must be used to indicate
the direction of flow in pipes carrying solutions containing cyanide.
To ensure clear identification of cyanide containing tanks, it is recommended

that such storage vessels be painted signal red with a horizontal dark violet
band not less than 400 mm in width located at the vertical centre of the tank.
For transportation purposes, dangerous goods placards that display the

product and the emergency information for an accident must be displayed on
the vehicle:
37
10. TRANSPORTATION OF CYANIDE
The transportation of cyanide should only be contracted to transport

companies that are reliable, have well trained drivers, modern and well-
maintained vehicles, and have demonstrated a commitment not only to limiting
the exposure of their workforce, but also to preventing and or responding to
releases of cyanide to the environment. Only companies that have completed
and are up to date with their SA Safety and Quality Assessment System audits
(SA SQAS), must be used for the transportation of cyanide.
Written contractual agreements between companies and cyanide hauliers should

be in place. The agreements should outline which party will be responsible for
the following health, safety and environmental issues during each phase of
cyanide transportation:
 Driver/operator qualifications and vehicle operation training

 Accident prevention, emergency response and safety training for
transporter drivers/operators throughout the transportation process
 Packaging
38
 Labelling
 Storage prior to shipment
 Evaluation of selected routes to reduce risk, including community
consultation and disclosure
 Interim loading, storage and unloading
 Unloading at the process plant
 Proper maintenance and operation of transportation vehicles throughout
each delivery
 Coordination of security and emergency response actions throughout the
transportation process
 Preparation and submission of trip reports and immediate reporting of
transportation hazards or unsafe roads or driving conditions.
For road transport, appropriate route risk assessments should be conducted

and the route taken by vehicles specified. Routes should be selected
considering:
 Density of the population along the route

 Road conditions
 The availability of emergency services along the route
 Security of the cargo
The speed in South Africa of heavy goods vehicles, exceeding 9 000kg GVM
or 9000kg GCM is limited to a maximum of 80 kilometres per hour. For
smaller vehicles, the applicable national speed limit will apply. It is important
that drivers remain with their vehicles at all times, as is required by dangerous
goods legislation, thus ensuring that the product is continually supervised
throughout the journey.
Road transportation of cyanide is regulated by the National Road Traffic Act

93 of 1996, specifically Chapter VIII – Transportation of Dangerous Goods
and substances by road together with applicable national SANS Standards.
Such standards include:
 SANS 10231 – Transport of Dangerous Goods. Operational

requirements for road vehicles.
 SANS 10232 – Transport of Dangerous Goods. Emergency Information
Systems. Part 1: Emergency information systems for road transport.
 SANS 1518 – Transport of Dangerous Goods. Design, construction,
testing, approval and maintenance of road vehicles and portable tanks.
39
For transportation purposes, cyanide compounds falls into Class 6.1 – toxic
Substances.
If a cyanide leak develops in transit through a populated area, it is

recommended that the vehicle keeps on moving until an area is reached
where it will not pose a risk to the local residents. Appropriate emergency
measures should then be taken as quickly as possible. Contact the specialist
telephone number on the dangerous goods placards displayed on transport
vehicles and refer to the 1st Responders Emergency Response Guide as held
by the Emergency Services personnel.
Suitable spill response and respiratory protective equipment should be

available for handling emergencies and should be carried on all transport
vehicles.
11. WORKPLACE SAFETY
12.1 Risk Assessment:

A risk assessment must be conducted to determine cyanide exposure
scenarios and to take measures to eliminate, reduce and control such
scenarios. The risk assessment will assist in determining the control
measures (monitoring and health surveillance) that need to be implemented.
The following aspects must be considered when doing the risk assessment for
cyanide:
 how exposure could happen (considering normal, abnormal and
emergency circumstances)
 what is the chance of the exposure occurring
 who would be exposed
 the degree of exposure
 frequency of exposure (daily, all day or infrequently)
 the extent of the exposure that includes employees directly exposed
and employees indirectly exposed
40
 precautions or controls required that includes prioritisation of the

hierarchy of controls, justification for each level of control and
specifications for the correct PPE
 air monitoring requirements that includes occupational exposure limits
and measurements that need to be undertaken
 health surveillance requirements for cyanide
 storage requirements for the chemical as specified by the SDS
 physical handling of the containers
 emergency leak and disposal requirements including controls that are
suitable for the management of leaks/releases and controls required
for the prevention of environmental contamination
 PPE to be worn during spills/releases
Additional Risk assessments will be required should:
 new scientific information be obtained on the properties and hazards of
cyanide
 the results of monitoring or health surveillance show that it is necessary
to do so
 information received (via audits / inspections) indicates defects in the
control measures or an increase in cyanide risks. YES NO
12.2 Cyanide Operations:

Cyanide
Inspection facilities should
and preventative be engineered
maintenance and
procedures areoperational
practices designed to
in place
limit worker exposure to hydrogen cyanide gas and cyanide salts. The pH of
cyanide bearing processes should be maintained at a level that limits the
evolution of hydrogen cyanide gas.
Operating systems are implemented to minimize cyanide usage
Box 5 supplies a checklist of specific considerations for all cyanide operations
to ensure that human health and the environment is protected.
A comprehensive water management programme has been implemented
Measures are in place

BOXto manage seepage
5: CYANIDE from cyanide facilities
OPERATIONS for
CONSIDERATIONS
groundwater protection
Spill prevention or containment measures are in place for process tanks
and pipelines
41
Quality control/assurance measures are in place to confirm that cyanide
facilities are constructed according to accepted engineering standards and

Monitoring programmes are in place for surface and ground water quality
Cyanide air measurement and monitoring programme in place
The Hazardous Chemical Substance Regulations of the South African

Occupational Health and Safety Act, Act 85 of 1985) ) requires that where an
employee could be exposed to cyanide, an air monitoring measurement
programme of the airborne concentrations of HCN, which the employee may
be exposed to, must be developed by the responsible manager in conjunction
with the local safety personnel. The measurements must be conducted:
 after the Health and Safety Committee has been informed of the
intention of doing the measurement and given reasonable opportunity
to comment thereon
 by an Approved Inspection Authority (AIA) or
 by a person whose ability to do the measurements has been verified by
an AIA
Hydrogen cyanide is a hazardous chemical with a Short Term Occupational
Exposure Limit – Control Limit (10 parts per million or 10 mg/m 3 in South
Africa). Measurements have to be repeated every 12 months
12.3 Medical Surveillance:
If the risk assessment indicates that health surveillance is required, the
42
Occupational Health Medical Practitioner on site (where these services are

available on site) together with the site management must set up a
surveillance programme. The purpose of the programme must be to check for
any changes in the health of those shown at risk in the risk assessment.
12.4 Personal Hygiene:
Personal hygiene procedures should be implemented. Procedures should

ensure that:
 work clothing used in cyanide-related operations or activities is not

taken off-site by employees
 clothing contaminated with cyanide is removed immediately and
provisions are in place for the safe removal and cleaning of such
clothing
 persons laundering cyanide contaminated clothes are informed of the
hazardous properties of cyanide, particularly its potential for severe
systemic toxicity by dermal absorption or inhalation
 workers who handle cyanides thoroughly wash hands, forearms, and
face with soap and water before eating, smoking, using toilet facilities
and applying cosmetics or taking medication
 workers do not eat, drink, smoke, etc. in areas where hydrogen
cyanide or a solution containing cyanide is handled, processed or
stored.
12.5 Safety Data Sheets (SDSs):
SDSs for the specific cyanide handled at the facility must be available and
must be obtained from the supplier. The SDS must be made available to
employees in either electronic or paper format in all areas where cyanide is
managed, and must be used to support hazard recognition training
programmes for employees and contractors. The SDSs must also be made
available to members of local communities, stakeholders, and the general
public, upon their request.
12.6 Cyanide Plant Inspections:
Regular scheduled inspections for processing plants are recommended. All

tanks, piping, valves and secondary containment structures in the processing
area should be included in such inspections. Inspections should employ a
detailed checklist to focus the inspector on the specific items to be observed
(see Appendix 1 for an example of a checklist).
43
Tanks and pipeline inspections should focus on structural integrity, signs of

corrosion and leakage and legible labels indicating their contents and the
direction of flow in the pipeline.
Secondary containment structures and associated supply and discharge

piping systems should be inspected for their integrity, evidence of cracks or
leakage, the presence of fluids or crystallisation, and their available capacity.
Reagent cyanide solutions may be coloured with an environmentally benign
fluorescent dye to assist with inspections and make it easier to identify leaks.
All inspection records must be retained as per the facility specific procedures.
12.7 Environmental Management:
Environmental risks and impacts associated with the use or storage of

cyanide reagents must be effectively managed. A clear understanding of the
actual and potential impacts of cyanide reagents and its usage is required.
Facilities that manufacture, handle, store or use cyanide should introduce the
following specific requirements to ensure that the environment is adequately
protected:
 annual cyanide environmental audits

 a detailed and comprehensive water management programme to
prevent unintentional releases. This should include:
- an effective surface water quality monitoring programme based on the

facility’s environmental risk assessment outcome - this should include
daily monitoring at all medium to high risk areas
- an effective groundwater quality monitoring programme based on the
facility’s environmental risk assessment outcome
- storm water and effluent containment structures to prevent
contamination and discharge beyond plant and tailings dam complexes
 detailed operational procedures to ensure the effective management of

the facility’s environmental aspects
 detailed decontamination plans for known and potential soil and
surface water contamination in order to prevent further contamination
of surrounding areas
 monitoring of all pipelines transporting cyanide containing slurries and
detailed procedures for pipeline management – it is recommended that
pipeline wall thickness be measured, recorded and monitored for wear
on a monthly basis
44
An effective plan for environmental emergencies must be available as

described in Section 7.
12. EXTENDING SAFETY TO THE CUSTOMER
The chemical industry under Responsible Care is committed to promoting

safety at all stages of cyanide’s life cycle, from production to end-use and
disposal. This includes helping to educate customers and end-users on safe
handling practices and so preventing cyanide related incidents.
Responsible Care signatories are encouraged to work with their customers to

mitigate the safety, health and environmental (SH&E) and sustainability
impacts of the cyanide products they provide. Such impacts include those
associated with the distribution, storage, use, recycling and ultimate disposal
of such products.
13.1 Customer Sites
Customers using cyanide must continually strive to reduce cyanide risks in

their operations with the ultimate goal of preventing any cyanide incidents
occurring. Only through continuous improvement in cyanide safety
management and performance and prudent attention to cyanide security can
the industry, and all participating in it, hope to achieve long-term success.
It is therefore important that prior to the supply of cyanide products to

customers, the capability of the customer to handle such products first be
evaluated and assessed. If deficiencies are found, the customer should be
advised on how to correct the deficiencies so that safety, health and
environmental protection can be enhanced. The evaluation should assess the
following:
 Personal safety of employees and training

 Emergency response
 Security of facilities
 Bulk containers securement
 Bulk containers unloading system procedures
 Process piping (liquid and gaseous services)
 Process equipment – vapourisation system, storage system, process
area considerations and scrubber equipment
45
 Packaging/processing
 Warehousing/storage areas
 Delivery vehicle access
13 .2 Customer Support
The customer should be supported in all possible applications of cyanide. It is
recommended that product-specific training programmes be developed for
customers and their employees.
During customer support initiatives the following should be considered:
 Correct product use;

 Provision of cyanide’s SDS;
 Specify that appropriate precautions and procedures are in place;
 Provide detailed codes of practise regarding the handling and
transportation requirements in specific packaging and under specific
mode
 Where the customer is to purchase reasonable quantities of cyanide
over time, the supplier shall provide training to the customer’s
employees
 Customers should be reminded at annual intervals of the dangers of
the chemical or product, e.g. by letter or circular
 In any case if the supplier is not satisfied that appropriate
arrangements are in place, withhold supply and advise the customer
in writing with the reasons for withholding supply
 Suppliers may consider alternative hazard communication activities
such as laminated information cards for individuals or information
sheets or posters available in the areas of use, exposure, and
substitute formulations
14. REFERENCES
1. ADR (2006) Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Regulations,

Promulgated by the Minister of Communications, Dr. Ivy Matsepe-
Casaburri, in November 2006, in terms of section 69 of the
Electronic Communications and Transactions (ECT) Act
http://www.zadna.org.za/adr/zaDNA_ADR_guide.pdf
46
2. ACGIH (1994) Hydrogen Cyanide Total Limit Value (TLV), the American
Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists, 1994 ACGIH List, p. 23
3. NIOSH (1992) Recommended Exposure Limit (REL) for Hydrogen Cyanide,
the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 1992
4. NIOSH (1994b) Analytical Method for Cyanide, No. 7904, NIOSH, 1994
5. ATSDR (2004) Hydrogen Cyanide Toxicity After Inhalatory Exposure: Lethal
Effects, the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR),
Atlanta, Georgia, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, p.27,
2004
6. CEFIC (2002) Voluntary Code of Practice, Revision December 2006,
Cyanides Sector Group, European Chemical Industry Council (CEFIC),
Bruxelles
7. CETA VÚOS (2002) EC50, 48h, Daphnia magna Straus) VUOS, Czech
Republic, 2002 EC (2004) Essential Use Application Form for Biocides,
HCN, Doc. 7a Hazard Information, European Commission (EU),
Environment Directorate-General, CA, June 2004
8. ICMI (2006) Gold Mining Operations Verification Protocol For The
International Cyanide Management Code, International Cyanide
Management Institute, www.cyanidecode.org, September 2006
9. USDOL (2007) Occupational Safety And Health Guideline for Hydrogen
Cyanide, U.S. Department of Labour, Occupational Safety & Health
Administration, www.osha.gov
10. Soto-Blanco B, Maiorka PC, Gorniak SL. (2002). "Effects of long-term

low-dose cyanide administration to rats". Ecotoxicology and
Environmental Safety 53 (1): 37– 41. doi:
10.1006/eesa.2002.2189. PMID 12481854.
11. Soto-Blanco B, Stegelmeier BL, Pfister JA, et al. (2008). "Comparative
effects of prolonged administration of cyanide, thiocyanate and
chokecherry (Prunus virginiana) to goats". Journal of Applied
Toxicology 28 (3): 356–63. doi:10.1002/jat.1286. PMID 17631662.
12. Soto-Blanco B, Maiorka PC, Gorniak SL. (2002). "Neuropathologic
study of long term cyanide administration to goats". Food and
Chemical Toxicology 40 (11): 1693–1698.doi:10.1016/S0278-
6915(02)00151-5. PMID 12176095.
47
13. Soto-Blanco B, Gorniak SL. (2004). "Prenatal toxicity of cyanide in

goats—a model for teratological studies in ruminants".
Theriogenology 62 (6): 1012–26. doi: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.
2003.12.023. PMID 15289044.
14. Soto-Blanco B, Pereira, Verechia FT, et al. (2009). "Fetal and maternal
lesions of cyanide dosing to pregnant goats". Small Ruminant
Research 87 (1–3): 76–80. doi: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2009.09.029.
15. Chamber of Mines of South Africa Guideline on Cyanide Management
for Gold Mining. Revision 0. June 2001.
APPENDIX 1: CYANIDE FACILITY INSPECTION FORM
DATE: INSPECTED BY:
OFF-LOADING AREA
48
OBSERVATION YES NO COMMENTS/ACTIONS

Site specific off-loading procedures
are available.
Illumination in the off-loading area
complies with the SA legal minimum
requirements.
Off-loading installations are
enclosed with a fence with lockable
gates when no off-loading is taking
place.
Off-loading gates are locked with a
unique lock and key set and a
system is in place to control the
issuing of keys.
provided with clearly visible
barricades to prevent unauthorised
access to the installation whilst off-
loading is in progress.
Off-loading installations can
sufficiently drain and contain any
cyanide spillage or surface runoff
water.
equipped with a sump with sufficient
holding capacity, manually operated
spillage pump, level device and
audible alarm.
Sump pumps working.
Water hose available and water
point labelled
Water hose long enough to reach
whole area and hose in good
condition
When automated loading or
offloading equipment is used, the
automatic system can be remotely
overridden. A manually operated
shut-off valve is provided
away from the risk area for use in
an emergency.
Symbolic signs are displayed at off-
loading areas indicating:
 No entry to unauthorised
persons
 No smoking
 Protective clothing to be
worn
49
 Warning of poisonous
substance
 No naked flames
Cyanide off-loading does not
commence until the following
inspections and actions have been
carried out by a competent
customer qualified person:
 Verify product delivery
documents and delivery
vehicle details
 The reagent delivery vehicle

driver and the customer
qualified person wear
approved personal
protective equipment as
listed in the site specific off-
loading agreement
 The safety shower and eye
wash (including audible
alarms) are tested and in
working order
 The delivery vehicle is

standing level, the park
brake has been applied and
the wheels chocked and
earth straps connected
 The cyanide storage tank
levels have been
determined, recorded on the
checklist and verified
 The off-loading area has
been barricaded off and the
required warning signs
displayed
 The off-loading air hose
connection is tight and has
been tested
 The customer qualified

person gives authorisation
for the off-loading of cyanide
to commence when the
supplier vehicle driver and
customer qualified person
are both outside of the
50
hazard area

person visually checks the
off-loading hose couplings
for leaks, from outside the
hazard area when off-
loading commences

person and the vehicle
supplier driver both remain
in attendance at the off-
loading installation to
monitor the off-loading
process
STORAGE AREA
Vessels used for storage of cyanide
reagents meet the following
requirements:
 Each tank is provided with a

separate vent pipe
 Each tank has a separate
overflow pipe where
applicable
 Accurate and reliable tank

level indications, with high
level alarms, are provided
for each tank
 Each tank has a manhole
for inspection and
maintenance access
 Each tank is provided with
an individual earth strap
 Storage tanks permanently
display the required
Hazchem labels
Storage facilities are remote from
existing or planned acid storage
areas.
Symbolic signs are displayed at off-
loading areas indicating:
51
 No entry to unauthorised
persons
 No smoking
 Protective clothing to be
worn
 Warning of poisonous
substance
 No naked flames
Appropriate illumination installed in
the storage area, at dosing pumps,
valves, remote switches and alarm
buttons
Cyanide tanks, containers and
piping are clearly labelled.
The direction of flow is indicated on
all cyanide piping.
There are signs of corrosion or
deterioration or crystallisation on
cyanide tanks and containers.
There are signs of cracking or
deterioration on cyanide tank
supports.
The HCN monitors/alarms are in
good working condition.
PPE is available and in good
condition.
Fire extinguishers are charged and
in good working condition.
There are signs of corrosion on
cyanide
- valves
- pumps
- pipelines.
There is evidence of leakage or
spillage from cyanide tanks,
containers, valves, pumps or
pipelines.
Cyanide process valves are in their
proper position.
Water or cyanide solution is present
in secondary containment
52
structures.
Cyanide secondary containment
walls and floors are separated,
cracked or deteriorated.
Emergency alarms are in good
working condition.
Spill response/communication
equipment is readily available.
BUNDED AREA
The floor of bunded areas is sited
on a solid impervious area and
enclosed by a leak-proof bund wall.
The bund wall has no drain holes or
any other opening which could allow
cyanide effluent to escape from the
bund area
The bund walls are kept clean and
free of any superfluous material
The bunded area is capable of
safely containing 110% of the total
storage tank contents in the case of
a single tank installation, and in the
case of a multiple tank installation,
110% of the contents of the largest
tank. Where two or more vessels
are connected for simultaneous
use, the bund is able to
accommodate the combined
capacity of the tanks
The bund area is protected from
storm water ingress from other
areas
CYANIDE HANDLING AREA

All cyanide pipelines and storage
tanks comply to the specified colour
coding
Colour coding and labelling are
maintained to ensure proper visual
identification
Tools and equipment used during
inspection and maintenance and
constructed of aluminium or
53
aluminium alloys, magnesium or

magnesium alloys. Brasses and any
tinned or galvanised materials are
not be allowed to make direct
contact with any cyanide
All areas where gases can or are
suspected of accumulating are
treated as areas likely to contain
noxious gases and are monitored.
The areas are identified by means
of prominently displayed warning
signs and entry to such areas
restricted and controlled by means
of approved clearance procedures.
Safety shower present and
operational
Medical oxygen resuscitation
available and operational
REVIEWED BY: DATE:
54

Ahuspecnew RRS

Загружено:

Сведения о документе

Оригинальное название

Авторское право

Доступные форматы

Поделиться этим документом

Поделиться или встроить документ

Параметры публикации

Этот документ был вам полезен?

Это неприемлемый материал?

Авторское право:

Доступные форматы

Ahuspecnew RRS

Загружено:

Авторское право:

Доступные форматы

Author: L Lindeque Effective date: September 2012

Approved by: L Lotter Revision 01/2012

CHEMICAL AND ALLIED INDUSTRIES’

MANAGEMENT PRACTICE STANDARD SERIES

Approved by: L Lotter Revision 01/2012

Approved by: L Lotter Revision 01/2012

12.3 Medical Surveillance 42

Approved by: L Lotter Revision 01/2012

GUIDANCE DOCUMENT FOR CYANIDE

Eco-toxicological: a combination of the methods of ecology and toxicology

Incompatible materials: chemicals that should not be mixed or stored close

Occupational Exposure Limit – Control Limit (OEL-CL): The occupational

Biological monitoring: is the study of the presence and concentration of

Buddy system: where work is conducted on or in cyanide equipment or area,

Approved by: L Lotter Revision 01/2012

Cyanide: refers broadly to any form of cyanide contained either as cyanide in

Medical screening: The administration of a medical test to an individual for

Cumulative Poison: A poison the action of which is cumulative and increases

Note: Cyanide is non-cumulative. It has low persistence and is not

Cyanide Antidote: Medication administered to a patient contaminated or

Medical surveillance: The systematic collection, analysis and evaluation of

Spillage: the accidental discharge of concentrated cyanide, cyanidation slurry

Approved by: L Lotter Revision 01/2012

PRODUCT STEWARDSHIP GUIDANCE DOCUMENT

Cyanides play a vital part in a number of industries including the production of

Cyanide compounds are used to manufacture hundreds of everyday goods. It

Some other uses include:

 manufacture of jewellery, vitamin B12, adhesives, computer electronics,

A cyanide compound is any chemical compound that contains the cyano

Approved by: L Lotter Revision 01/2012

In organic cyanides, the cyano group is bonded to a hydrocarbon residue

Approved by: L Lotter Revision 01/2012

transportation and use, and if the relevant equipment is specifically designed

A variety of cyanide compounds are manufactured and used by the chemical,

- Crystalline/powdered potassium cyanide – used in laboratories,

Manufacturers, their employees, and users of cyanide and cyanide containing

The following characteristics of cyanide should be specifically noted:

1.1 Physical Properties:

Approved by: L Lotter Revision 01/2012

There are several chemical forms of cyanide:

Some manufacturers supply cyanide in a liquid format, tailored to their

1.2 Chemical Properties:

Approved by: L Lotter Revision 01/2012

Hydrogen cyanide gas is reactive when in contact with the following:

Hydrogen cyanide may polymerise at 50 – 60 ºC. Polymerisation can occur

1.3 Cyanide Stability:

Sodium cyanide is stable when kept in a tightly closed, impervious container.

HCN IS NOT FORMED

Approved by: L Lotter Revision 01/2012

1. pH is a scale designed to measure the acidity or alkalinity of materials.

Safety in the production, handling, storage and transportation of

Although cyanide is a relatively toxic compound, it has been safely

3.1 Health Hazards:

It is important to note that exposure to cyanide can occur through:

 inhalation of vapour, dust and gas

Approved by: L Lotter Revision 01/2012

 eye or skin contact

For this reason, it is important to provide medical oxygen to an exposed

Inhalation of the gas or exposure to the chemical should be prevented at all

 Hydrogen cyanide can cause rapid death due to metabolic asphyxiation

The effects of cyanide on human health depend on both the concentration

The toxicity of cyanide to humans is dependent on the nature of the

Approved by: L Lotter Revision 01/2012