Iron Oxide, as fume Skin contact may cause mechanical irritation due to the abrasion. Eye contact will result in no specific effects other than general particulate irritation in the eye. Not absorbed by the body. Excessive exposure can give mild pulmonary irritation. PRIMARY ROUTES OF ENTRY: Inhalation (dry form only), ingestion and dermal. SUMMARY OF RISKS: Individuals with a lung disease/condition (e.g.: bronchitis, emphysema, chronic pulmonary disease) can be aggravated by exposure. EMERGENCY FIRST AID: No specific first aid is necessary since the adverse health effects associated with this compound results from chronic exposures. Eye Contact May be an irritant, flush eyes with generous amounts of water for at least 15 minutes; call a physician if irritation persists. Skin Contact May cause local dermatitis, which is relieved when removed. Ingestion Toxicity due to ingestion is low. Inhalation Remove to fresh air, call a physician if irritation due to inhalation persists. Physician's Note None. Silica, Crystalline (Quartz) A single exposure will not result in serious adverse health effects. Respirable crystalline silica (quartz) can cause silicosis, a fibrosis (scarring) of the lungs. Silicosis may be progressive; it may lead to disability and death. Crystalline silica (quartz) inhaled from occupational sources is classified as carcinogenic to humans. There are some studies that show excess numbers of cases of scleroderma and other connective tissue disorders in workers exposed to respirable crystalline silica. Silicosis increases the risk of tuberculosis. There are some studies that show an increased incidence of chronic kidney disease and end-stage renal disease in workers exposed to respirable crystalline silica.