Isocyanates - Aromatic Isocyanate Surface Contamination Sampling and Evaluation Techniques

Aromatic Isocyanate Surface Contamination Sampling and Evaluation Techniques

The OSHA Technical Center in Salt Lake City received a request for assistance at a facility that uses methylene bisphenyl isocyanate (MDI, CAS no. 101-68-8) in their production process. It was decided that an inspection would include screening and sampling for possible MDI surface contamination (as well as air sampling for MDI). The following surface monitoring techniques were evaluated in preparation for that inspection.

Isocyanates - Standards

Standards

Isocyanates hazards are addressed in specific standards for general industry, shipyard employment, and construction. This section highlights OSHA standards and documents related to isocyanates.

OSHA Standards

Isocyanates - Hazard Recognition

Isocyanates - Hazard Recognition

Hazard Recognition

Many workers are unaware of the potential hazards that chemicals present in their work environment, which makes them more vulnerable to injury. The following references aid in recognizing and evaluating hazards associated with isocyanates in the workplace.