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Evidence for carcinogenicity | |
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Exposures to synthetic mineral fibers are addressed in specific OSHA standards for general industry and maritime. This section highlights OSHA standards and documents related synthetic mineral fibers.
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Evidence for carcinogenicity | |
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OSHA PEL - TWA |
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Controlling the exposure to synthetic mineral fibers can be done through engineering controls, administrative actions, and personal protective equipment (PPE). Engineering controls include such things as isolating the source and using ventilation systems. Administrative actions include limiting the worker's exposure time and providing showers. Personal protective equipment includes wearing the proper respiratory protection and clothing. The following resources contain information to help control and prevent exposures.
The following resources aid in evaluating exposures to synthetic mineral fibers in the workplace. Typically, employee exposures are determined from breathing zone air samples that are representative of the 8-hour work day.
There is insufficient evidence that synthetic mineral fibers cause respiratory disease in humans. Results from animal experiments have led to conservative classifications of certain synthetic mineral fibers as possible human carcinogens. Specifically, insulation glass wool, continuous glass filament, rock (stone) wool, and slag wool are not classifiable as to their carcinogenicity to humans. The following resources aid in recognizing synthetic mineral fiber hazards in the workplace.
Synthetic mineral fibers are fibrous inorganic substances made primarily from rock, clay, slag, or glass. These fibers are classified into three general groups: fiberglass (glass wool and glass filament), mineral wool (rock wool and slag wool), and refractory ceramic fibers (RCF). Many workers in the U.S. exposed to synthetic mineral fibers in manufacturing and end-use applications.
