Training Series Part XI: Methylenedianiline (MDA)

Subpart: D – Occupational Health and Environmental Controls

OSHA Standard: 1926.60

Occurrence: Upon initial assignment

Frequency: ANNUALLY or as conditions or roles change

Training Style: Hands on training (PPE), toolbox talk, classroom instruction.

Background:
MDA, a suspected human carcinogen, is a white to tan solid (amine odor) liquid. Uses for MDA include enhancement of thermal stability in polyamides, fatigue resistance and dye ability in fibers, and the preparation of impact resistant resins, polyimides with superior wire coating properties, benzimidazolethiols (antioxidants), hydraulic fluids, urethane foams, fungicide stabilizers, and sensitizers for explosives. Route of exposure: Inhalation; skin absorption; ingestion. MDA can be inhaled, absorbed through the skin, or ingested. Exposure can lead to dermatitis, abdominal pain, fever, chills, liver damage, and bladder cancer.

Permissible Exposure: 10 parts per billion (ppb) over an 8-hour time weighted average. Eye and skin contact are not permitted

Employer Responsibilities:
In addition to the information required under 29 CFR 1910.1200 (HAZCOM standard), the employer shall: Discuss PEL and where the possible exposure could occur, signs and symptoms of exposure, appearance health hazard associated with MDA, hazard controls implemented (engineering, administrative, and PPE), proper handling and storage, and treatment.

Employers are required to perform measurements that are representative of your exposure to MDA and you or your designated representative are entitled to observe the monitoring procedure.
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Access to training materials: The employer shall make readily available to all affected employees, without cost, all written materials relating to the employee training program, including a copy of this regulation.  The employer shall provide to the Assistant Secretary and the Director, upon request, all information and training materials relating to the employee information and training program. Training records shall be maintained for one (1) year beyond the last date of employment for all employees.
 
Employee Responsibilities:
Employees have the responsibility to ensure stay within their roles. If assigned to work with MDA to ensure they are properly trained and follow identified work practices to limit exposure. Workers are entitled to observe the steps taken in the measurement procedure and to record the results obtained. Employees or their representative are entitled to see the records of measurements of your exposure to MDA upon written request to your employer. Employee medical examination records can be furnished to your physician or designated representative upon request by you to your employer.
 
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