RE: Thorium Allergy

["Thomas J. Shelley" <tjs1@CORNELL.EDU>]

>Besides thorium, what else do the rods contain?  You need to look at all the

>metals.

>-- John



Dear Colleagues--I do not find thorium to be listed as a sensitizer 

(which is the association I make with the word "allergy").  Mr. 

Jacobus' comment was very appropriate.  Nickel, in particular, is a 

severe sensitizer in some individuals and precipitates a number of 

"allergic" responses, varying in form and severity from individual to 

individual.  I personally have a skin sensitization to nickel from 

having worn nickel-containing eyeglass frames for many years.  I have 

had to switch to 100% titanium frames.  If the welding rods are for 

stainless steel they probably have nickel in them and it is probably 

the nickel, not the thorium, that is the problem.  My $.02.  Tom

-- 

*********************************************************



Tom Shelley,   Chemical Hygiene Officer, Cornell University

Department of Environmental Health and Safety, 125 Humphreys Service Building,

Ithaca, NY 14853.       (607) 255-4288              tjs1@cornell.edu



****************************DISCLAIMER********************

The comments and views expressed in this communication are strictly my own and

are not to be construed to officially represent those of my peers, 

supervisors or

Cornell University.

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