Epoxy resins can be extremely useful for a variety of applications, such as floor sealants, adhesives, and wood finishes. However, with great utility comes the potential for overexposure and health risks. In the below article, we will explore the short- and long-term health risks associated with overexposure to epoxy resin, as well as tips for keeping yourself safe while working with the material.
Understand Exposure Levels
The first step in managing any potential risks is to understand at what level they become a concern. Generally speaking, short-term exposure or accidental inhalation of epoxy fumes is not considered hazardous. However, extended or regular exposure to epoxy fumes may cause respiratory irritation, headaches, dizziness, and nausea.
For those who are regularly exposed to epoxy resins or working on a large project, better precautions should be taken. High concentrations of epoxy fumes can cause difficulty breathing and other serious health issues. In this case, using a fume extraction system can be a good idea. The better prepared you are, the less likely you are to be overexposed.
Wear Appropriate Safety Gear
When handling large quantities of epoxy resin, there are a few types of safety equipment that should be used in order to protect yourself from adverse effects related to toxic vapors and dust particles created during application or mixing processes:
- Respirators: Make sure you purchase an appropriate respirator for the job at hand. Some respirators are better suited for certain levels of toxicity than others so read instructions carefully before using one.
- Gloves: Wear non-permeable gloves when handling uncured epoxies; these substances can cause skin irritation if they come into contact with your skin directly due to their strong alkaline properties.
- Goggles: A must-have if you’re dealing with flying particles created when sanding down cured layers, protecting your eyes is always paramount. The same goes for mixing epoxies; make sure you wear safety goggles to protect your eyes from any accidental splashes or spills.
Additionally, make sure you’re working in a well-ventilated area to reduce the risk of inhalation of hazardous fumes. You may also check out how does a fume extraction system work so that you can better understand how to keep yourself safe in the workplace. The better prepared you are, the more likely it is that your epoxy resin project will be a success.
To Conclude
Generally speaking, these systems pull contaminated air away from the working area and filter it through a series of carbon filters. The air is then expelled outside, ensuring that you are not breathing in any hazardous materials. By investing in an appropriate fume extraction system, you can protect yourself from potential long-term health risks associated with overexposure to epoxy resins.
