Isocyanates are compounds containing the isocyanate group (-NCO).
They react with compounds containing alcohol (hydroxyl) groups to produce polyurethane polymers,
which are components of polyurethane foams, thermoplastic elastomers, spandex fibers, and polyurethane paints.
Isocyanates are the raw materials that make up all polyurethane products.
Jobs 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, and during the thermal degredation of
polyurethane products.
Health effects of isocyanate exposure include irritation of skin and mucous membranes, chest tightness,
and difficult breathing. Isocyanates include compounds classified as potential human
carcinogens and known to
cause cancer in animals.
The main effects of hazardous exposures are
occupational asthma and other lung problems, as well as irritation of the eyes, nose, throat, and skin.
The following questions link to information relevant to isocyanates exposure in the workplace.
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