Copper safety data
GHS classification summary, not a safety data sheet (SDS). Classifications can differ by supplier, grade and concentration. Always check the supplier's SDS.
GHS classification
Pictograms, signal word and hazard classes of the GHS classification
Hazard classes and categories
- Aquatic Acute 1
- Aquatic Chronic 1
Hazard statements
H codes grouped by type. Percentages show the share of classification notifications that report the statement
Environmental hazards
- H400Very toxic to aquatic life.
- H410Very toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects.
Precautionary statements
P codes for prevention, response, storage and disposal
Prevention
- P273Avoid release to the environment.
Response
- P391Collect spillage.
Disposal
- P501Dispose of contents and container in accordance with local regulations.
First aid
General first aid measures. Get medical advice if you feel unwell
Handling, storage and disposal
Summaries only, follow the supplier SDS for your grade
Safe handling
Fire: NO open flames.
General: PREVENT DISPERSION OF DUST!
Inhalation: Use local exhaust or breathing protection.
Skin: Protective gloves.
Eyes: Wear safety goggles.
Ingestion: Do not eat, drink, or smoke during work.
Storage
See Chemical Dangers.
Disposal
Alternative treatment processes for metal bearing hazardous waste streams are reviewed. Precipitation is the preferred treatment process for removing toxic heavy metals from electroplating waters. Precipitation processes include hydroxide, lime and/or sulfide treatment. Chemical reduction is used to treat complex metals such as nickel, copper, hexavalent chromium waste, soluble lead, silver, metal containing cyanide, and mercury. Adsorption has shown potential for treating and polishing aqueous metal bearing wastes. Activated carbon, activated alumina, and iron filings are all applicable adsorbents. Alkaline chlorination and incineration are effective cyanide destruction treatments. Evaporation, ion exchange, reverse osmosis, electrodialysis, and electrolytic recovery are waste reduction and recovery techniques applicable to metal bearing hazardous streams.
Exposure limits and toxicity
Occupational exposure limits and toxicity data
- OSHA PEL
- TWA 1 mg/m3 [*Note: The PEL also applies to other copper compounds (as Cu) except copper fume.]
- NIOSH REL
- TWA 1 mg/m3 [*Note: The REL also applies to other copper compounds (as Cu) except Copper fume.]
- ACGIH TLV
- 8 hr Time Weighted Avg (TWA): 1 mg/cu m /Copper dusts and mists, as Cu/
- IDLH
- 100 mg/m3 (as Cu)
Short-term exposure: Inhalation of fumes may cause metal fume fever. Long-term exposure: Repeated or prolonged contact may cause skin sensitization. Ingestion may cause effects on the liver.
Transport information
UN dangerous goods classification for road, sea and air
- UN number
- UN 2776
- Transport hazard class
- 3
- Packing group
- I
Shipping rules depend on mode, quantity and packaging. Confirm the classification with the supplier SDS and your freight forwarder.
Supplier safety data sheets
SDS documents uploaded by suppliers who list this chemical
No supplier has uploaded an SDS for Copper yet. Suppliers usually send one with their quote. Request quotes
Safety questions
Quick answers about handling Copper safely
Is Copper hazardous?
Which GHS pictograms apply to Copper?
What is the UN number of Copper?
How should Copper be stored?
Where can I get the SDS for Copper?
GHS classification summary, not an SDS. Always check the supplier's SDS. Last updated 7 Oct 2026. Report an error