The aim of this article is to provide support to users working with specialty epoxy systems in the form of general guidelines for the safe working and handling of epoxy resin systems.
Epoxy resins and their main uses
Epoxy resins and their products have many unique properties that no other materials can offer. For example, they have excellent adhesion and mechanical properties, protect against corrosion and are characterized by resistance to chemicals and weather. Therefore, they are widely used in various fields.
The main areas of application of epoxy resins in the construction industry are paints, adhesives, floor coverings (e.g. industrial floors and floors of multi-level parking lots), stone carpets, chemical anchors, sealing and impregnating coatings, concrete renovation, repair of cracks and dents, or they are used as a connecting material when laying tiles. They are widely used in the electrotechnical, electronic, aerospace and automotive industries, in the production of sporting goods and in other applications with high demands on material properties. Last but not least, they are gaining popularity in the hobby sector in the production of furniture and hobby creation.
Properties and effects of epoxy resins
Epoxies are mostly two-component systems, consisting of an epoxy resin and a curing component. Before use, both components must be mixed in the specified ratio. The individual components as well as the uncured mixture can exhibit dangerous properties and cause irritating reactions or hypersensitivity. Not all people will have the same reaction. Some users are less prone to sensitization, while others only need a few short contacts to trigger an allergic reaction. Typical symptoms of an allergic reaction include redness or swelling of the skin or in the eye area, skin damage or allergic contact eczema. The main risk is eye contact or direct skin contact. However, if basic safety precautions are followed, they are safe to handle. After mixing, a chemical reaction takes place, resulting in an inert final material. The finished, cured material based on epoxy resin does not pose any health risk and offers excellent technical parameters.
Before working with epoxy systems
There are separate instructions for safe handling of both the resin component and the curing component. It is necessary for the user to be informed in them about possible health problems in the event of unwanted exposure, and this information can be found in the safety data sheets of the given product. The classification and labeling warns the user that the components of the uncured system contain substances that may have irritating or sensitizing effects, especially in direct contact with the skin or mucous membranes.
What contact situations can arise?
In general, direct contact with individual components or uncured mixture should be avoided. However, potentially hazardous situations when using components of uncured epoxy systems include
- Transportation and storage of containers,
- Dosing and mixing of ingredients,
- Spreading, pouring, troweling, roller application, spraying or injecting materials,
- Cleaning tools or disposing of empty containers and waste materials.
Transport and storage
Refer to the label for shipping instructions for epoxy system components. Components should be stored in closed containers in a cool, dry location designated as a materials' storage area. Containers must not be stored in inappropriate locations, such as toilets or temporary accommodation on a construction site.
Mixing
The main objective is to prevent splashes or leaks that could spread to the surrounding area. Specially designed equipment can greatly reduce potential exposure to accidental splashes or spills during mixing. To minimize the risk, it is advisable to use the following equipment:
- Variable speed mixing equipment,
- Suitable mixing tools and accessories,
- Protective lid with hole for mixing device,
- Mixing station (for larger quantities of material),
- Static mixer, especially for injection into cracks.
Weighing, pouring and casting
When weighing out the necessary quantities from the sales packaging, do not to splash or spill the tools, the surroundings, the scale or even parts of the body. It is necessary to use available accessories in the form of funnels, pumps, nozzles, etc.
Spreading with a trowel, applying with a roller, brush, spraying
A few simple precautions will help to increase safety when processing epoxy systems. For example, using a notched trowel on a stick instead of a spatula significantly increases the safe distance to prevent splashing. If you use a roller or brush, it needs to be equipped with a drip guard. Good air circulation must be ensured when applying by spraying.
Injection
Careful and accurate handling and inspection of the equipment is particularly important in this method of application. It is important to use suitable measuring and mixing devices, suitable high-pressure couplings, carefully check the permeability of the equipment, and not to squeeze, bend or run over the hoses.
Cleaning tools
For your own safety and the safety of others, it is essential to clean tools, especially their handles, after use. Cleaning can be done by removing excess material and/or using cleaning agents recommended by the manufacturer (mostly based on xylene or a mixture of xylene and acetone). Instrument cleaners should never be used on skin.
Handling and disposal of epoxies
Do not dispose of uncured epoxy unless necessary. If necessary, then dispose of them in accordance with local regulations (more information can be found in the Safety Data Sheet). Cured epoxy resins can usually be disposed of as construction waste, but you should always seek professional advice to ensure disposal is in accordance with local regulations. Disposable containers must be properly emptied and disposed of. Be aware that they may still contain some resin residue.
Risks and personal protection
Unintentional contact with the components of epoxy resins occurs mainly in situations where the user is insufficiently protected, does not pay attention to the work or uses inappropriate tools. The following situations should be avoided:
- Contact with skin or eyes when splashed or spilled,
- Dirty/soaked clothes, shoes, gloves,
- Dirty tool handles,
- Unplanned chemical reaction resulting from improperly measuring ingredients or using the wrong ingredients,
- Inhalation of fumes,
- Mold/form leakage and efforts to save the leaking material.
After curing, epoxy resins become inert plastics. Direct contact of properly cured epoxy resins with the skin does not pose any health risk.
Skin protection and skin care
Before you start working with epoxy systems, it is advisable to protect exposed areas of the skin that are not covered by other protective means, such as gloves, with a suitable protective cream. Such areas include, for example, the face. It is advisable to use products without abrasive components and solvents for cleaning the skin. After work, the skin should be treated with a cream that promotes hydration and regeneration.
Personal protective equipment
When working with epoxies, it is advisable, and necessary when working with them, to use personal protective equipment, which must be regularly cleaned and replaced. Footwear and gloves must be suitable and in good condition. All parts of the body that are potentially exposed to epoxy systems must be protected by appropriate clothing or safety equipment.
A comprehensive set of safety protective equipment for working with epoxy systems includes:
- Suitable protective gloves made of nitrile or butyl rubber fully coated on the back; note: leather and latex gloves are generally not suitable as they are permeable and easily soaked,
- Eye and face protection, e.g. safety glasses, goggles, face shield, mask or respirator,
- Disposable safety overalls/pants (for professionals working with epoxy coatings every day),
- Protective apron, e.g. for mixing,
- Knee protection, e.g. for mixing in a bucket,
- Respiratory protection where necessary, e.g. when spraying in closed spaces (more detailed information can also be found in the safety data sheet).
If products containing solvents are used, a mask with a suitable filter should be used, e.g. type A filter. When applying by spray, a combination filter must be used, e.g. Type A1-P2.
Is anything not clear to you?
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