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Safety and Health Topics Synthetic Mineral Fibers In Focus Voluntary Worker Protection Programs (VPP) Synthetic mineral fibers are fibrous inorganic substances made primarily from rock, clay, slag, or glass. These fibers are classified into three general groups: fiberglass (glasswool and glass filament), mineral wool (rockwool and slagwool), and refractory ceramic fibers (RCF). There are more than 225,000 workers in the US exposed to synthetic mineral fibers in manufacturing and end-use applications. The following questions link to information relevant to synthetic mineral fiber hazards in the workplace. What OSHA standards apply? Standards | Preambles to Final Rules | Standard Interpretations What are the potential health hazards? Carcinogenicity | Toxicology How can I evaluate synthetic mineral fiber exposure? Chemical Sampling Information | Sampling and Analytical Methods How can hazards be controlled and prevented?   In Focus Voluntary Worker Protection Programs (VPP) Voluntary Health and Safety Partnership Program for Fiber Glass, Rock and Slag Wool Fiber Products. North American Insulation Manufacturers Association (NAIMA), (1999, May 18). A Health and Safety Partnership Program (HSPP) to help protect workers exposed to fiberglass insulation. The HSPP establishes a voluntary exposure limit for fiberglass exposure of 1 fiber/cm3 of air (1 f/cc), makes comprehensive worksite recommendations for the proper and safe handling of insulation materials, and increases education and training programs for workers.  Safety and  Health Topics     Synthetic Mineral Fibers   OSHA Standards   Health Hazards   Exposure Evaluation   Control and Prevention   Credits   Content Reviewed 11/22/2006

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