Document R2bYBjkqV4mmJ3eGMe3MnokV

1968 National Safety Congress The uncured resin is usually the condensa tion product of "Bis Phenol-A" and epichlorohydrin which, at room temperature, can be other in the liquid or solid state. Fillers such as fiberglass silica flour, abestos, and diatomaccous earth may be added to the uncured resin. Diluents such as organic solvents may also be added. Curing agents commonly used include aro matic or aliphatic amines, add anhydrides, organic adds, polyamides, and organic per oxides. The chemical process of curing can be done at room temperature (cold cure) or at elevated temperatures. The curing time will vary from a few minutes to several hours, depending upon chemicals and tem peratures used Health Haeards. The prindpal hazard associated with epoxy resin systems is a skin reaction or dermatitis. Epoxy resin dermatitis is largely due to curing agents and solvents. The condition is simply irrita tion or allergic reaction of skin rather than a general systemic toxidty. Amine com pounds, add anhydrides, organic adds, and organic peroxides which are used as curing agents are both primary irritants and skin sensitizers. Probably the most troublesome of the chemicals are amine catalysts. Skin contact with these curing agents is responsible for the majority of dermatitis cases associated with epoxy resin systems. The completely cured epoxy resins are rela tively inert and do not constitute a derma titis exposure. However, dermatitis cases are common among workers machining or cutting resins thought to be cured, but which still contain free catalysts, Amine vapors, which are usually abundantly liberated during hot curing processes, cause irritation of the eyes and mucous membranes. In some individuals, they also can cause a lung reaction resem bling asthma. These vapors may cause der matitis among sensitized workers. Exposure to dust from fillers such as silica flour, asbestos, and diatomaccous earth may present potential health hazards. Fiberglas, which Is used in laminating operations, can cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes. Dust resulting from cutting, grinding, and shaping of completely cured resins is relatively inert If an excess of curing agent is present in the resin, the cured product may contain unreacted curing agents whicn present a dermatitis exposure. Explosion Hatards. Most uncured epoxy resins have flash points above 300F and do not present a serious fire hazard. Some diluents, curing agents, and solvents toed with epoxy resin systems are flammable. The fire and explosion hazards associated with epoxy resin systems are normally con sidered to be slight. First Aid. If skin contact with unreacted epoxy resin system components occurs, af fected areas should immediately be thor oughly washed with a mild soap and water. If eye contact occurs, wash for at least 15 minutes and refer to a physician. Preplacement Medical Procedures. Work ers with a history of skin diseases, allergies or abnormal pulmonary conditions. should not be employed in areas where epoxy resin materials are used. Health Hasard Control Methods. 1. Good general ventilation is necessary for areas using epoxy resin systems. Local exhaust ventilation may be needed at mixing stations and curing areas, especially if large quantities of materials are involved. Curing ovens should be exhausted to the outride. 2. Adequate wash facilities should be pro vided in the area where epoxy resin systems are used. An ample supply of mild Boap and disposable towels should be provided- 3. If possible, areas using epoxy resin systems should be isolated from other areas of the plant 4. Good housekeeping is essential All spills should be cleaned immediately. The use of disposable paper overbp on work areas is desirable. Contaminated paper should be removed and stored in covered metal containers. The scrap should be removed from the plant daily. 5. All gloves or tools contaminated with epoxy resin components should be washed in a suitable solvent such as acetone or alcohol, followed by soap and water. 6. Workers should be thoroughly in structed in proper handling techniques for epoxy, resin systems, be acquainted with potential hazards, and have dose supervision. Personal Protection. 1. Rubber or plastic gloves (preferably cotton lined) or disposable surgical gloves and arm protection should be worn where 8