Polyurethane and Polyurea sprays provide protective coatings for a number of industries. There are sprays and foam sprays that will create a barrier from other surfaces including metal, concrete, wood, glass and much more. These sprays and foams may be “green” but they can also be extremely dangerous when used improperly.
When utilizing any kind of Polyurethane and Polyurea spray equipment, safety equipment must be worn. This PPE or personal protective equipment will protect you to avoid any kind of damage to your eyes, skin and to prevent accidental inhalation. Deciding on the right PPE will have everything to do with the specific product.
Reading the MSDS Sheets
The MSDS sheet or Material Safety Data Sheet should be available for every type of Polyurethane and Polyurea product you will have to use on the job. Within the sheet, it will detail the product name and then give some details as to the hazard information. It will discuss the color, form and odor of the product. It will also disclose what kind of dangers it can cause.
Some of the other information that is on the MSDS includes:
– Primary routes industrial electrical contractors near me of entry
– Medical conditions that are aggravated by exposure
– Human effects and symptoms of overexposure
– First Aid measures
By reading the MSDS prior to use, you will know exactly what PPE should be worn on every occasion. The more PPE that is worn, the less chances of experiencing any kind of symptoms due to being exposed to the raw chemical.
The Dangers of Polyurethane and Polyurea
Polyurethane and Polyurea are harsh chemicals that will have negative effects on the body.
When it is exposed to the eyes, it can cause reddening, tearing and swelling. Depending on the particular activity being conducted, it is also possible to suffer corneal injury. Prolonged vapor contact can also cause conjunctivitis, otherwise known as pink eye.
It is also possible to experience inhalation of the Polyurethane and Polyurea when using it. Without the correct safety equipment, inhalation can cause a respiratory tract irritation, coughing sore throughout and potentially even lung damage. It may cause breathing difficulty as well, which could mean having to seek medical attention immediately.
When Polyurethane and Polyurea get into contact with the skin, it can be very abrasive. Many people have experienced irritations, reddening and itching. Depending on the strength of the chemicals, it can cause dermatitis, burning and potentially even permanent damage. This has to do with the corrosive nature of the product.
Proper PPE When Spraying Polyurethane and Polyurea
SPF or spray polyurethane foam will require the use of a number of PPE products. This is required for applicators, helpers and any other workers who are in the area that the foam or spray is being used. Anyone in the area will need the PPE until the product has completely cured.
An evaluation of the PPE should be conducted. The sprayer may need to wear additional PPE in comparison to those who are simply in the area. It’s also important to ensure the PPE does not hinder the wearer’s ability to perform the job due to the dexterity of the gloves and such. Further, if the PPE does not properly fit the person, it is deemed less effective.
During an evaluation, it may also be necessary to conduct air samples. This will make it possible to determine how many workers should be wearing masks. When in doubt, everyone in the area should wear them to prevent any unnecessary exposure to the chemicals.
The following PPE should be worn during the use of Polyurethane and Polyurea spray equipment:
– A NIOSH- approved respirator that covers the full face. This should also include a P100 cartridge
– Safety goggles
– MDI- resistant chemical gloves
– MDI-resistant fitted boots or booties
– Chemical resistant long-sleeve coveralls
The respirator will protect you in the event of any kind of inhalation. The cartridge will help to filter out various vapors and particulates in the air that could be dangerous if ingested or inhaled. Further, your employer will need to have a written respirator program on premises to detail what kind of respirator you need to use and at what times you should be using it.
Depending on the type of respirator you have, you will also need safety goggles. These should be fitted to avoid any chemicals or vapors from getting into the eye area from the side. You also shouldn’t wear contact lenses when spraying as the fumes could cause additional eye irritation. You are more likely to experience corneal damage with the use of contact lenses as well.
MDI-resistant chemical gloves will protect your hands against any chemicals that could get on your skin. Many materials can be used to create the gloves. This can include butyl, nitrile, neoprene or PVC. These are modern machinery used equipment sufficient to protect against A-side and B-side chemicals. Consult the MSDS for the Polyurethane or Polyurea product that you are actually using to ensure the globes are sufficient to protect you against exposure.
Standing in an area where you or someone else is spraying can be hazardous to your skin. The chemicals can easily get up through your shoes and potentially into your pants. The corrosive nature of the products can actually eat into the material of your shoes, causing severe redness and swelling of your skin where the chemical touches. As a result, you will need to wear proper fitted boots or booties over your existing shoes.
Finally, you will need chemical resistant long-sleeve coveralls to protect the rest of you. If any of the chemical splashes on you, it will be necessary for you to have this protection. Even if you aren’t spraying, you will want the coveralls in case you come into contact with any mist that is present in the air before it settles onto the ground.
Every company and every product will require different types of PPE. The Polyurethane and Polyurea products can be extremely dangerous, which means safety equipment must be used. Consult MSDS sheets when in doubt of what to wear.
