From August 2023, new (di)isocyanate regulations will be imposed – which will affect the use and application of products containing isocyanate. In this article, we will centralise our focus towards isocyanate paints.
What is Isocyanate?
Isocyanate is a family of chemicals, characterised by being both highly reactive and low in molecular weight. This chemical features in the manufacturing process of a wide range of products – including: flexible and rigid foams, coatings and fibres.
Isocyanate Paint
Essentially all paints contain isocyanate, primarily because they can withstand extreme conditions and are very durable. These qualities are in particular use to manufacturing industries, where longevity and robustness is a necessity. You can find our specially designed isocyanate paints by visiting our sister store TA Paints.
Where Else is Isocyanate Used?
Aside from being an asset in paint, isocyanate is also useful in many other substances. A common example would include home insulation and also construction materials – since it is weatherproof and durable.
The Dangers of Isocyanate-Based Paint
Isocyanates are a highly reactive substance, which can be irritant to the skin, mucous membrane of the eyes, gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts. Habitual exposure to this chemical can have detrimental consequences, such as increasing vulnerability to severe asthma attacks. In some extreme cases, workers have died from the severe asthma attacks which exposure to the isocyanates caused.
Current Provisions for Using Isocyanate
Of course, the dangers of this chemical does demand appropriate regulations to be implemented in order to protect users. For instance, COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002) requires employees to impose careful measures controlling the risk of harmful substances. The exposure of isocyanates in a workplace is also capped at 20 micrograms per cubic metre of air.
Current requirements also make it imperative for employers to report any confirmed cases of asthma or dermatitis which has resulted from isocyanate exposure. In conjunction with firm practices when using diisocyanate, products containing a concentration greater than 0.1% must be explicitly labelled on the product container.
New Regulations for Using Isocyanate
As of August 2023, enhanced regulations will be implemented to provide further protection for those vulnerable to isocyanate. Firstly, isocyanates must not be used in isolation or as part of a mixture if the concentration exceeds 0.1% by weight.
Additionally, it is mandatory for the employee to provide valid isocyanate training for all users. Details of this regulation notes that the training must be approved by an appropriate body, and renewal of training is obligatory every five years.
Notably, it is the responsibility of the
employer to keep records of all the training given to employees. Training is divided into three levels, which each correlate to a different degree of risk. The level of training assigned is dependent on the risk of activity which the worker carries out.
Implications of the New Regulations
Of course, the greatest benefit of the new regulations is improved safety for users. However, these new rules also raise several considerations for employers moving forwards. Some advantages following the new implementation include:
- Existing products can continue to be used
- The need to choose a new product is avoided; this can prove economical for a company as switching products can be disruptive for both employees and consumers
On the other hand, employers may find several disadvantages regarding the new regulations. For instance:
- Difficulty in finding a training course that meets the required standards
- Difficulty to provide training where there is a high volume of employees, or where there are many temporary employees
Who is the Training Provided To?
These regulations apply to any employed or self-employed worker using isocyanate paint. Common industrial uses which requires isocyanate training include:
- Applying outdoor coating
- Professional painting
- Spraying a ventilated booth
Your Next Steps
Once training has been completed, you can then fully take advantage of the benefits which isocyanate paint provides. Browse our wide range of paints today to get started. Need more support with how the regulation changes will affect you and your paint applicators? Contact us today.
