Working environment factors
How does Sodium Tetraborate affect workers’ health?
Apr
This article explores the impact of Sodium tetraborate (Na₂B₄O₇) on workers’ health in industrial settings where this chemical is used. From potential hazards to necessary protective measures, this guide aims to help safeguard employees effectively.
1. What is Sodium tetraborate?
Sodium tetraborate, also known as borax or sodium borate, is a chemical compound with the formula Na₂B₄O₇. It is a sodium borate salt, commonly appearing as colorless crystals or white powder that is easily soluble in water.
In nature, it often exists as hydrated borax, such as Na₂B₄O₇·10H₂O.
Structurally, sodium tetraborate consists of two sodium (Na) atoms, four boron (B) atoms, and seven oxygen (O) atoms, forming tightly linked borate groups.
This compound plays an important role in many industries, including glass manufacturing, ceramics, detergents, and certain chemical applications, due to its thermal stability and ability to facilitate chemical reactions efficiently.
| No. | Chemical Name (Vietnamese) | Chemical Name (English) | HS Code | CAS Number | Chemical Formula |
| 1. | Natri tetraborat | Sodium tetraborate | 28401100 and 28401900 | 1330-43-4 | Na2B4O7 |
See also our Chemical Safety Training according to Decree 113/2017/ND-CP
REGISTER FOR CHEMICAL SAFETY TRAINING UNDER DECREE 113
2. How is Sodium tetraborate generated in production processes?
In industrial production, Na₂B₄O₇ is mainly derived from raw materials containing boron, such as borax ore or kernite.
When these raw materials are processed via chemical purification or calcination methods, sodium tetraborate is extracted or formed as an intermediate or final product.
Additionally, in processes for manufacturing heat-resistant glass, ceramics, industrial detergents, and disinfectants, sodium tetraborate is synthesized or generated through chemical reactions between boron-containing compounds and sodium under high temperatures.
Operations such as grinding, mixing, heating, or cooling materials may release dust or vapors containing sodium tetraborate into the workplace.
3. Industries using Sodium tetraborate in production
In glass manufacturing, Na₂B₄O₇ is used to increase thermal and mechanical strength.
In ceramic and glaze production, it lowers the melting point, saving energy and improving surface quality.
In industrial detergents, it acts as an active ingredient to enhance cleaning and antibacterial properties.
Moreover, the cosmetics, pharmaceutical, and agricultural industries use sodium tetraborate for pH regulation, product preservation, or as an ingredient in insecticides.
In metallurgy, sodium tetraborate participates in smelting and welding processes to remove impurities and support bonding.
4. How does Sodium tetraborate affect workers?
Exposure to Na₂B₄O₇ in the workplace can have several negative health effects, including:
Inhalation of sodium tetraborate dust or vapors may irritate the respiratory tract, causing coughing, shortness of breath, rhinitis, or bronchitis.
Long-term inhalation exposure can damage lung tissue and reduce respiratory function.
Skin contact may cause dryness, irritation, redness, or contact dermatitis.
Eye contact can result in irritation, redness, and pain.
High doses or prolonged exposure may affect liver, kidney, and reproductive function.
5. Safe exposure limits for Sodium tetraborate
Currently, no specific safe exposure limits for sodium tetraborate are provided in Vietnamese regulations. Therefore, determining safe exposure levels should refer to international standards and industry best practices. 
At a basic level, working in industrial environments requires compliance with safety standards and limiting exposure to sodium tetraborate. Organizations such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in the U.S. provide guidelines and safety principles to protect workers from harmful chemical effects.
6. Measures to minimize Sodium tetraborate exposure for workers
To minimize health risks, engineering controls like localized ventilation systems should be installed in areas generating dust or chemical vapors.
Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) should be used, including certified dust masks, chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and protective clothing to limit direct contact.
Periodic chemical safety training should be provided to raise awareness of hazards and proper emergency response procedures.
Regular monitoring of the workplace environment is necessary to check sodium tetraborate concentrations in the air, enabling timely adjustment of controls to keep exposure within permissible limits.
Occupational Safety Training: Employees should be trained and educated on hazards and safety measures when working with this chemical. Training should be provided periodically to ensure understanding and compliance with safety rules.
Regular workplace environmental monitoring should be conducted in factories to collect and analyze harmful factors, adjusting measures to prevent occupational diseases.
7. National workplace environmental monitoring center
Nam Viet Workplace Environmental Monitoring Center is a professional unit providing environmental quality monitoring across all provinces in Vietnam. With experienced monitoring specialists and modern measuring equipment, the center ensures accuracy and reliability.
REGISTER FOR WORKPLACE ENVIRONMENT MONITORING SERVICE
Besides monitoring services, the center assists clients with planning, handling, and tracking workplace environmental issues. Following the motto “customer-centric,” the center prioritizes customer satisfaction, addressing all needs, and providing the best solutions for businesses.
With investment in technology and human resources, Nam Viet’s monitoring center has become one of the most reputable units in workplace environmental monitoring in Ho Chi Minh City, with goals as follows:
- We value our brand reputation and service quality.
- We provide customers with the best and most suitable services possible.
- Alongside a team of experienced Masters and Engineers dedicated to environmental protection and business benefits.
- With Nam Viet’s Environmental Monitoring Team, your company will receive professional service from specialists in the monitoring field, along with the best cost advantages.
8. Workplace environmental monitoring price list
To help businesses conduct professional and efficient environmental monitoring, Nam Viet provides clients with a price list for workplace environmental monitoring services that is both high-quality and cost-effective.
- The price list provides detailed information on the costs of monitoring services, including transportation, measurement, analysis, and reporting. Clients can trust the accuracy and reliability of the reports provided.
- We commit to offering the most competitive and reasonable prices while promptly consulting and addressing any service-related questions professionally.
- With Nam Viet’s price list, clients can easily choose the service package that fits their needs. We ensure the highest satisfaction with professional service quality.
