6 ways to Keep Workers Safe from Isocyanates

Isocyanates are used in the manufacturing process of many items, but they can be dangerous for workers. To keep your employees safe from isocyanates, read our top 6 tips below.

1. Identify the hazard.

Isocyanates are hazardous chemicals that can cause health problems if they are inhaled, according to NIOSH. Not all isocyanates are considered hazardous, but it is important for employers to know which ones are so they can take appropriate safety measures.

2. Prevent exposure.

Minimize workers’ exposure to isocyanates by limiting the number of times workers spend near products that contain them, according to NIOSH. This can be done by using automated spray equipment and providing engineering controls such as ventilation systems or fume extractors. Employers should also provide proper respiratory protection when exposure cannot be prevented.

3. Provide medical exams.

As required by OSHA, employers who use hazardous chemicals must provide medical exams to workers exposed to isocyanates. These exams are the best way for employees and their doctors to understand how they were exposed and determine what kind of effects they may be seeing later on.

4. Train workers on isocyanate hazards.

As required by OSHA, employers must provide workers with training on isocyanate hazards and precautions they can take to limit exposure. Employers should make sure their workers understand the signs of exposure and the proper procedures for using respiratory protection.

This may also include: Maintaining Your Fume Extraction System

5. Provide appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

The right PPE can help protect workers from isocyanate exposure, according to NIOSH. Employers should provide workers with respiratory protection that has been approved by NIOSH. This includes respirators with an N95 or higher designation and all appropriate filters and cartridges for isocyanates

6. Monitor the work environment.

Employers must monitor the work environment to find out if employees may be exposed, according to OSHA. The agency recommends that employers spot-check for isocyanates at least once every four hours and ensure that workers use proper respiratory protection when air concentrations are expected to exceed exposure limits. Employers should also take steps to prevent off-gassing of isocyanates that may occur when materials containing them are stored or handled.

With these 6 ways to keep workers safe from isocyanates, you can help prevent the risk of respiratory illnesses and other health problems. We hope that this blog post has been informative for you in your quest for knowledge about how to protect your employees. If so, please share with us what topics you would like us to cover next!