BACKGROUND

Epoxy products are a complex blend of chemicals specially selected to give each system its desired characteristics. As with any chemical, poor handling or misuse can be potentially hazardous to health. Risks can be minimized by using simple precautions, appropriate care, and control. It is essential, then, that those who handle epoxies be properly trained to understand the hazards, take precautions to avoid them and work safely.

This document is intended as a general guide to the safe use of epoxy resin systems. Recommendations in this guide should be followed. Materials Safety Data Sheets are available on request. A glossary of terms is provided at the end of this document.

HEALTH EFFECTS

From the outset, it should be emphasized that major health problems associated with epoxy use are:

• That some resins are adhesive and tacky and thus will readily adhere to and remain on any surface, including the skin.
• That some resins and many curing agents cause primary irritation of the skin, and may cause sensitization.
• That vapor, droplets and dusts of some of the materials may be irritating to the eyes and respiratory passages.

The first aim of all safety precautions, then, is to prevent skin contact and to avoid indiscriminate spreading of the materials. Mixing epoxy chemicals may generate heat, and with certain systems, can even cause smoke.

REMEDIAL FIRST-AID MEASURES

Eyes: First-aid should consist of immediate and continued washing of the eye for up to 15 minutes with copious amounts of clean water. If there is any suspicion of eye damage or persistent irritation, contact a doctor.

Skin: Immediately wash thoroughly with soap and water. (See “Personal Hygiene.”) If this doesn’t work, try a waterless cleanser (one with little or no petroleum solvents or defatting agents.) Remove dried or cured epoxy with denatured alcohol. Follow up by washing with soap and water, then applying skin cream. Skin showing evidence of burn should be washed thoroughly in cold water, covered with a dry dressing and the employee referred to a doctor.

Inhalation: Remove to fresh air and keep at rest until any symptoms of respiratory irritation distress have disappeared. If rapid recovery does not occur, obtain medical attention.