PPE REQUIREMENTS FOR POLYURETHANES VERSUS NONISOCYANATE COATINGS: IS THERE REALLY A DIFFERENCE?

Isocyanates are reactive chemicals often used in foams, elastomers, fibers and polyurethane paints. Exposure to isocyanates has been reportedly linked to irritation of the mucous membranes of the eyes, gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts More serious health effects include asthma and inflammatio...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of protective coatings & linings 2019-06, Vol.36 (6), p.15-17
Main Author: Tipton, Leah K
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Asthma
Contractors
Data sheets
Elastomers
Hazardous materials
Irritation
Isocyanates
Occupational safety
Personal protective equipment
Plastic foam
Polyurethane foam
Product safety
Protective coatings
Safety standards
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Summary:Isocyanates are reactive chemicals often used in foams, elastomers, fibers and polyurethane paints. Exposure to isocyanates has been reportedly linked to irritation of the mucous membranes of the eyes, gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts More serious health effects include asthma and inflammation of the lungs. In the protective coatings industry, exposure to isocyanates may occur during the mixing or application of poly-urethane paints. The word isocyanate on a product label or safety data sheet (SDS) might prompt the user/specifier to select an alternative coating such as a product labeled as green or environmentally friendly. In some cases, facility owners and/or contractors have reportedly been reluctant to specify or use polyurethane coatings, based upon the belief that coatings containing isocyanates have more stringent personal-protective-equipment (PPE) requirements than those for application of coatings that do not contain isocyanates. A study was conducted to investigate this belief and determine if recommended PPE requirements differ between polyurethane and non-isocyanate-containing coatings.
ISSN:8755-1985