Employers in aerospace, construction and vehicle repair sectors are among those being urged by the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI) to ensure their workers are properly trained and protected from the risks of hazardous diisocyanate chemicals commonly found in many products.
Diisocyanates, are a group of highly reactive substances that are a crucial component of products used for furniture and commercial vehicle manufacturing, as well as polyurethane production. They are found in coatings, adhesives, sealants, foams, and elastomers.
As part of its Workplace Health Campaign HSENI is raising awareness of the health risks associated with working with these substances and reminding employers of their duty to protect staff.
HSENI’s head of the market compliance chemicals team Ronan Magee said: “Diisocyanates are used in a wide range of manufacturing and construction products from paint and varnishes to expanding foams and adhesives across many industries, and exposure to them can impact your health.
“They enter the body primarily through inhalation and skin exposure and are a common cause of occupational asthma and allergic contact dermatitis.
‘’Professional and industrial users of products containing these chemicals at a concentration of 0.1% or greater by weight are required to complete specialist training which provides critical information on the risks and measures required to protect workers from the long-term health effects of exposure,” he said.
Employers and self-employed individuals must identify products containing these substances by checking product labels or safety data sheets and ensure that all professional and industrial users have completed the necessary training.
The required training can be accessed through online platforms provided by the manufacturers and trade associations or via local training providers.
Ronan added: “Every job has health risks, but no one should become ill just because of the work they do. With a good understanding of the risks, management, and adequate controls in place we can help protect workers, which in turn will reduce the burden on the health service and the economy.”
For more information on the safe use of these chemicals and to access training resources visit https://www.hseni.gov.uk/diisocyanates