Class 1 indicator tapes with or without lead

In one of my previous blog, I discussed about different classes of chemical indicators. Class 1 indicators are also called process indicators. Class 1 indicator tapes are available in the market with different brand names with or without lead.

Lead is very poisonous metal. It affect almost every organ and system of the body. Lead is neurotoxic and can cause brain disorders. In pharmaceutical companies, class 1 indicator tapes with or without lead are commonly used. Indicator tapes which contains lead basically converted in to light colour to dark colour after processing in autoclaves. Disposal of these tapes containing lead is very important. These tapes can't be disposed off anywhere because it can cause health risk to living beings. These lead containing tapes should be disposed off as hazardous chemical waste by taking precautions. But now a days,there is another option available in the market that is class 1 indicator tapes without lead. These tapes are very safe to use and doesn't come under the category of hazardous waste. One more thing is that you can check whether lead free is mentioned on the tape or not. If lead free is not mentioned then these tapes are likely to contain lead. You can also check material safety data sheet (MSDS) for verification.  

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