The second edition of the Guide for Safe Use of Isocyanates: An Industrial Hygiene Approach is designed to facilitate occupational disease prevention through recognition, evaluation and control of the risks associated with exposure to these toxic substances, which are found in products such as automobile paint. Based on the latest developments, the guide discusses respiratory and dermal exposure as well as other safety hazards. It also describes various means of prevention.

Packed with references and easy to consult, the guide uses clear and simple language to answer common questions about the different types of isocyanates, their effects on health, personal protective equipment, ventilation, decontamination and substitution. Other important topics such as health surveillance, worker training, and work practices and procedures are also addressed. "Given the variety and complexity of isocyanates, the different forms of exposure and the number of allergic workers, this guide is an invaluable tool for occupational health and safety practitioners. It is based on knowledge developed by the IRSST, whose expertise has been recognized for more than 25 years, as well as by a great many researchers in Canada and around the world," said Brigitte Roberge, an occupational hygienist at the IRSST and the principal author of the document.

New features in the second edition include a series of examples that make it easier to understand and manage isocyanate exposure. These are typical situations found 1) in an auto body shop where workers apply isocyanate-based coatings (primer, topcoat, etc.); 2) on a construction site where isocyanate-based foam insulation is sprayed on building walls; 3) in a plant where flexible polyurethane foam is produced for use in furniture upholstery; 4) in a vehicle repair shop where workers use polyurethane glue, applied with a spray gun, to install windshields; 5) in a collision repair shop where workers perform cutting, grinding and welding on the bodies of damaged vehicles; and lastly 6) in a plant where workers apply paint to airplane parts and where a workstation adjoining the paint area must be assessed for possible relocation of a worker who is sensitive to isocyanates.

This guide, without a doubt the most exhaustive and up-to-date available, can be downloaded free of charge at https://www.irsst.qc.ca/media/documents/PubIRSST/RG-773.pdf.

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Source
Jacques Millette
Manager, Public Affairs
IRSST