Isocyanates
A general fact sheet to help businesses (PCBU) manage the risks of isocyanates in the workplace.
Isocyanates are a group of highly reactive organic compounds that easily become volatile and enter the atmosphere as a vapour. They are common components of polyurethane foams and spray coatings used to provide a protective coating over a range of materials including cement, wood, fiberglass, steel and aluminium.
Isocyanates are used in manufactured materials including polyurethane foams, synthetic rubbers, coatings (including paints and varnishes), elastomers and plastics.
Occupations that are most at risk of exposure to Isocyanates include:
- spray painting/coating
- auto industry (repair, manufacture and finishing)
- manufacturing of synthetic rubbers, polyurethane foams, plastics and insulation
- building installations
Heating of isocyanate containing materials is likely to release Isocyanates into the atmosphere. Activities such as hot wire cutting foams, welding through polyurethane pipe lagging, high temperature bonding using polyurethane sealants and hot removal of varnishes are activities that may lead to inhalation exposure to Isocyanates. Sanding of isocyanate containing materials such as paints, foams and plastics may also result in inhalation exposure from dust particles.
Read our Isocyanates Technical Fact Sheet.
Harms
Isocyanates are a powerful irritant to the mucous membranes of the eyes and gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts.
Skin and respiratory system irritation
Common symptoms of short-term (acute) exposures include irritation of the nose, throat and eyes, irritation to the respiratory system including coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath. Direct contact with the skin or eyes can result in contact conjunctivitis, blistering, swelling and irritation. Sensitisation can occur after high acute exposure, or prolonged exposure to lower concentrations of Isocyanates. Sensitised workers may suffer allergic reactions including occupational asthma, dermatitis, hives and rashes at very low, or brief exposure to Isocyanates.
Gastrointestinal distress and headaches.
Nausea and vomiting, and headaches.
Potentially cancer-causing
In addition to immune sensitisation, chronic exposure to Isocyanates may cause liver and kidney disease, chronic lung damage and cancer.
Control measures
SafeWork NSW recommends you follow a hierarchy of controls (PDF 30kb) to eliminate or minimise a hazard.
Eliminate use if possible
Eliminate the use of materials containing Isocyanates if reasonably practicable.
Other controls
Employ engineering controls, in particular:
- ensuring local exhaust ventilation, automated processes or spray booths are in place.
- use of appropriate tools or personal protective equipment to avoid skin contact with isocyanate containing chemicals.
- using well maintained and appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as full-face respirators, overalls, safety goggles and chemical-resistant gloves including a program to correctly fit, instruct on the use and ensure regular maintenance of PPE.
- ensure safety equipment is available (e.g. eye wash and showers).
- ensure that instructions and controls outlined in Safety Data Sheets, manufacturers specifications, product labels and any instructions provided by supervisors and managers are followed.
- conduct health monitoring of workers where there is a significant risk to health because of exposure to Isocyanates.
- ensure that instructions and controls outlined in Safety Data Sheets, manufacturers specifications, product labels and any instructions provided by supervisors and managers are followed.
More information
- In the event of suspected exposure, call the Poisons Information Centre on 131 126.
- Our Isocyanates Technical Fact Sheet has more information or call us on 13 10 50.