Spray Foam is commonly used as an insulating material in construction. Read the risks of using this chemical and learn what safety prevention is required for using it.

1. SPRAY FOAM DANGERS
OSHAcampus Safety Warning

2. Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF)
is being used as an insulating
material in new construction for
the past years. It is a widely
effective insulator and sealant.
The Occupational Safety and
Health Administration (OSHA)
cite that during the emphasis
of”retrofitting older buildings to
conserve energy has increased
the use of SPF at least 60% in
the past 5 years. “

3. The main component of SPF is
isocyanates, other SPF chemicals
that may be acquired in vapors,
aerosols, dust or on surfaces during
and for a period of time after
installation.
OSHA states that the occupations
that may involve exposure to
isocyanates include painting, foam-
blowing, and the manufacture of
many Polyurethane products, such
as chemicals, polyurethane foam,
insulation materials, surface
coatings, car seats, furniture, foam
mattresses, under-carpet padding,
packaging materials, shoes,
laminated fabrics, polyurethane
rubber, and adhesives.

4. SPF may cause health problems
such as:
•Fire
•Irritation of skin and mucous
membranes
•Chest tightness
•Difficulty in breathing
•Potential human carcinogens
•Sensitization which can lead to
work-related asthma

5. Procedures to control SPF exposure must
be followed by employers in order to
protect workers. Safety tips from the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
include:
•Participate in HAZWOPER training for
information on how to handle chemicals,
dangers of exposure and importance of
personal protective equipment.
•Wearing of a full face supplied air
respirator.
•Use of a peel off shield in order to keep
masks clean.
•By wearing a full body suit and chemical
resistant gloves.
•Making sure that filters are clean in the
ventilation operating system.
•For any symptoms of skin irritation or
shortness of breath, contact a supervisor
or medical personnel immediately.

6. OSHA has Permissible Exposure
Limits (PELs) for Methylene
bisphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) and
2,4 toluene diisocyanate TDI of 0.02
ppm. This corresponds to 0.20
mg/m3 for MDI and 0.14 mg/m3 for
TDI. Exposure above the PELs is
considered hazardous to the safety
and health of workers.

7. References and Image Credits
https://www.osha.gov/dep/greenjobs/weather_spf.html
https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/occupationalasthma/index.html
http://epa.gov/dfe/pubs/projects/spf/spray_polyurethane_foam.html
http://www.oshacampus.com/hazwoper-training/
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