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Section 4 - Safety Information: General Safety
Safe Handling And Use Of Urethane Foam
Equipment
Introduction
Any tool, if used improperly, can be dangerous. Safety is
ultimately the responsibility of those using the tool. In
like manner, safe operation of polyester processes is the
responsibility of those who use such processes and
those who operate the equipment. This manual outlines
procedures to be followed in conducting polyester
operations safely.
All personnel involved in dispensing operations should
read and understand this manual. It is most important
that equipment operators, maintenance, and
supervisory personnel understand the requirements for
safe operation.
This manual cannot answer every circumstance; each
user should examine his own operation, develop his
own safety program and be assured that his equipment
operators follow correct procedures. GlasCraft hopes
that this manual is helpful to the user and recommends
that the precautions in this manual be included in any
such program.
Urethane foam systems are comprised of several
different chemical compounds, some of which may be
hazardous if improperly used.
CAUTION
Particular caution must be taken with respect to the
vapors released during the use of urethane foam
systems.
Isocyanate compounds are used in urethane foaming
operations. The medical history of persons who may be
exposed to such isocyanates should be examined. It is
recommended that individuals with a history of chronic
respiratory ailments should avoid exposure to all
isocyanates.
In addition to the manual, GlasCraft recommends that
the user consult the regulations established under the
Occupational Safety & Health Act (OSHA), particularly
the following sections:
• 1910.94 Pertaining to ventilation.
• 1910.106 Pertaining to flammable liquids.
• 1910.107 Pertaining to spray finishing operations,
particularly Paragraph (m)
Organic Peroxides and Dual Component Coatings. Local
codes and authorities also have standards to be followed
in the operation of your spraying equipment. Chemical
manufacturer's recommendations should be obtained and
considered. Your insurance carrier will be helpful in answer-
ing questions that arise in your development of safe proce-
dures.
Personnel Safety Equipment
GlasCraft recommends the following Personal Safety
Equipment for conducting safe operations of the Polyester
Systems:
GlasCraft recommends that the user consult the state and
local regulations established for all Safety equipment listed.
Operating Safely
In operating urethane foam equipment safely, user should
make every effort to:
1. Handle chemicals safely.
2. Provide adequate ventilation.
3. Provide adequate safety equipment (gloves, respirators,
safety glasses, protective clothing, etc.) for operators
and all others working in areas where they may be
exposed to the chemicals or their vapors.
4. Avoid operating equipment which has given any indica-
tion of malfunction.
5. Become fully acquainted with the equipment and chemi-
cals used.
Handling Chemicals Safely
Storage of polyisocyanates, diamines, and organic solvents
should be isolated and restricted to specially constructed
storage rooms. Store chemicals in original containers and
according to manufacturer's recommendations listed on the
container. Maximum ambient temperatures to which such
chemicals should be exposed are specified by the manufac-
turer and MUST NOT be exceeded either in the storage area
or in the spraying or pouring area.
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