Springvale EPS

· EPS product itself is not classed as a hazardous substance under the current COSHH regulations
· EPS is regarded as biologically inert.
· However during hot wire cutting suitable and adequate ventilation should be provided as smoke /
fumes may cause irritation to the respiratory tracts and eyes.
· Where substantial dust is likely to be produced in any subsequent re- working or processing of EPS (band
sawing or grinding) suitable dust extraction should be provided to ensure that exposure does not exceed
10mg/m³ 8 hours TWA (Occupational Exposure Limit for total inhalable dust).

Safety hazards
· EPS is organic and therefore combustible. The following list of recommendations although not
exhaustive is aimed at providing guidance and best practice when assessing fire risk with EPS
material.
· As a matter of best practice Smoking should be prohibited in EPS storage, conversion and processing
areas.
· Static build up whilst transferring EPS loose bead can create a fire risk.
· Ensure EPS loose bead is transferred at slowest speed possible and that all transfer equipment is suitably
earthed.
· EPS should be stored away from highly inflammable material such as paint or petroleum products.
· Maintain good housekeeping regimes in storage, work and processing areas they should be kept free from
the build-up of waste / rubbish that may spread fire or ignite spontaneously.
· Fire extinguishers / hose reels should be available at all times at clearly signed and easily accessible fire
points.
· A hot work permit must be operated in all areas involved in the processing, storage, or re-working of EPS
materials. (EPS) dust, like other hydrocarbon based polymers in this form is classified as a Group (A)
flammable dust and suitable precautions should be taken as required under Section 31 of the Factories
Act 1961.
· During the cutting, re working, re-cycling of EPS avoid the accumulation of fine dusts creating explosive
atmospheres, use appropriate controls and extraction.
· Strong winds may liberate loose bead, EPS board or cut EPS pieces. Ensure products are secured and
sealed effectively.
· In the event of a fire which requires the Fire Service to attend ensure they are advised that EPS is
involved.

Expanded polystyrene (EPS) may contain residual minimal amounts of Pentane
expansion agent.
Class E products also contain a polymerised flame retardant
Polystyrene CAS number 9003-53-6

The following list of recommendations are presented as guidance and best practice when assessing the storage and
handling of EPS product
1. Store under cover in dry conditions taking into account safety information & recommendations in the previous
sections of this document.
2. Stocks of EPS material should be sited so in the event of a fire; flowing or dripping material will not cause the
spread of fire to other combustible materials or to other areas of a building, in particular store away from
staircases and corridors.
3. Storage should be in a level situation at ground level (not on ramps). Raised thresholds to doorways or bunds
should be provided where storage on upper floors is unavoidable (particularly to the edges of floors without up
stands and around staircases). The bund walls should be of fire-resisting material and liquid-tight construction.
The capacity of the bund area should be at least 3% of the maximum total volume of EPS stored.
4. In Warehouses where large quantities of EPS are stored, consideration should be given to the use of sprinkler
systems.
5. Storage should not impair the performance of any sprinkler system.
6. Storage temperature – ambient.
7. Storage areas should be sited in such a manner that permanently marked access & exit ways can be maintained.
8. Ensure EPS is stored in well ventilated areas away from all ignition sources including exposed overhead, lighting /
heating etc. Operate a hot work permit procedure, and observe no smoking regime,
9. On building sites EPS should be stored wherever possible in a secure fenced compound or building. It should be
stored under cover, protected from high winds and raised above damp surfaces. EPS boards should be stacked flat
without bearers and protected from direct sunlight if exposure is likely to exceed 7 days
10. Individual storage areas on building and civil engineering sites generally should not contain more than 60 cubic
meters (about 1 tonne) of material. If a greater volume needs to be stored it should be divided into 2 or more areas at
least 20 meters apart. (This refers to Building and Civil Engineering Sites) British Standards (Sect 7.4 BS6203).
11. Care should be taken to avoid contact with aromatic solvents, oils, and materials such as coal tar, pitch and
creosote.
12. Small amounts of residual pentane (expansion agent) may be given off by finished product avoid inhalation.
13. Weather conditions such as high winds may liberate loose bead or cut EPS pieces, ensure products are stored
and sealed securely and protected from high winds.
14. Although some EPS products are relatively light and may be carried by an individual, it is recommended to avoid
injury to the carrier or damage to the product the end user should carry out a risk assessment of onsite operating
and environmental conditions likely to affect safe handling of EPS product. Reference Management of Health and
Safety at Work Regulations 1999 and the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 (MHOR)
15. After re-working the surface of some EPS boards or cut pieces may be rough textured therefore suitable work
wear should be worn to protect from rubbing on the skin, arms etc.