Worker safety with epoxy coatings

In epoxy coatings, health hazards are caused by both the epoxy resins in the paint part and the amine compounds in the hardener. Epoxy resins and amine compounds of epoxy hardeners are significant groups of compounds that cause occupational sensitization. When working with epoxy coatings, both solvent-based and water-borne, it is important to protect the skin carefully, as these compounds can cause allergic contact dermatitis.

EPOXY RESINS

  • The epoxy compounds in the resin part may cause allergic contact dermatitis (allergic contact eczema). The eczema appears as an itchy, stinging or blistering eczema on the skin area which was in contact with the chemical. The skin symptoms usually occur some hours or several days after the skin contact. If left untreated, the eczema may last several days or even weeks. A contact allergy to epoxy compounds may even develop as a result of only one chemical splash.
  • A person allergic to epoxy resin is usually no longer able to handle epoxy coatings due to the skin symptoms.
  • Epoxy resins may also cause respiratory symptoms.

CURING AGENTS OF EPOXY COATINGS

  • The amine compounds in epoxy hardeners also cause allergic contact dermatitis. A person allergic to epoxy hardeners is usually no longer able to handle epoxy curing agents due to the skin symptoms.
  • The amine hardeners in epoxy coatings are strongly alkaline, which is why they irritate and corrode skin and eyes. Minor skin contact causes irritation of the skin and, if prolonged or repeated, irritant contact dermatitis.

PERSONAL PROTECTION WHEN SPRAYING EPOXY COATINGS

Respiratory protection: If ventilation is insufficient, half- or full mask with gas filter A, and when grinding P-type dust filter must be used. Mask with combined filter (gas & dust) AP must be used when spraying. In the continuous long-term work it is recommended to use motored air protector or separative protector (fresh air hood or compressed air hood or such).

Hand protection: When choosing a protective glove material, penetration times, rates of diffusion and the degradation must be considered. Material of gloves: Wear suitable gloves tested to EN374. May be used, gloves (breakthrough time) 4-8 hours: butyl rubber, nitrile rubber.

Eye/face protection: Tightly sealed goggles. The eye flushing device should be located near the the paint work area.

Body protection: Protective work clothing