POLYDECK LIMITED

Unit 14, Burnett Industrial Estate
Cox's Green, Wrington
Bristol BS40 5QS
T: 01934 863678 F: 01934 863683

C O S H H

Control of Substances Hazardous to Health

Although in it's liquid format GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) is considered harmful or hazardous, once it has cured GRP is inert and is considered to be non-hazardous; therefore it does not come under the control of hazardous substances.

However the following notes on machining should be observed.

Cutting or machining GRP laminate with power tools will generate dust consisting of cured resin and glass particles. The volume of dust depends upon the nature and cure state of the laminate and to a degree, the cutting speed of the equipment employed. If water spray or LEV (Local Exhaust Ventilation) is not available, the wearing of goggles and face masks is advised. The generated dust is however not toxic and is biologically inert, being considered a "nuisance" dust.

The OEL (Occupation Exposure Limit) for the inhalation of GRP dust is 10mg/m³, a rather high permissible value over eight hours TWA. If this limit is likely to be exceeded, extraction is advised. The glass fibre present is of such dimensions that it is not truly respirable and no long-term disability results from exposure. This has been demonstrated by studies of the health records of thousands of glass fibre production workers.

GRP dust can be a temporary skin irritant, easily cured by the application of soap and water. Treatment for GRP particles in the eye is, as for any other form of dust, washing out with copious amounts of clean water and if necessary, the seeking of medical advice.

Risk assessments and method statements should be written for each installation.

Data sheets of the chemicals used in the production of GRIPFAST® products can be supplied upon request.

Ref: Polydeck/\coshh0.001