Isocyanates exposure testing
Isocyanate exposure testing is one of the most important aspects of a continuous worker’s health monitoring program. Isocyanate-containing products are widely used in the industry and therefore many work processes have the potential to cause significant exposure employees. The primary routes of exposure are inhalation of isocyanates containing fumes, vapours, and particles and direct skin exposure. Regular isocyanates exposure testing is an integral part of maintaining a safe environment for your employees and preventing sensitisation leading to the development of occupational asthma.
Isocyanates are powerful irritants to the respiratory tract and mucus membranes around the eyes. Due to their widespread use isocyanates are considered the leading causes of occupational asthma in the UK. Isocyanate related asthma typically develops after continuous exposure from several months to years. Once sensitised, extremely low respiratory levels of isocyanate can elicit asthmatic responses.
To fully evaluate employees’ exposure levels and effectiveness of existing engineering controls our technical assessor will carry out personal and static isocyanates exposure monitoring, skin exposure monitoring and glow break through assessment. We can also provide our clients with biological monitoring method for isocyanates exposure. Exposure to isocyanates can occur at all stages of the manufacturing process from initial surface application to final curing or cutting of materials.
Our isocyanates exposure monitoring program includes:
