How to work Safely with Spray-on Fireproofing

Laborers, plasterers, electricians, and pipefitters are among the many traders that are exposed to spray-on fireproofing. Earlier on, the materials used to have asbestos content and therefore used to be dangerous. The fireproof coatings in Detroit being produced nowadays have little or no asbestos although it contains other products that may be potentially toxic.

Fireproof coatings in Detroit material that is spray-applied is made up of fibrous materials, cement-like material or a combination of both. The commonly used materials are slag wool, gypsum, vermiculite and Portland cement. Other ingredients may include calcium hydroxide, fuller’s earth, kaolin clay, bauxite, carbon black, and mica. The above materials may be combined with different chemical accelerators to speed up the hardening. The formulations may change, and therefore the best way to know the exact composition of fireproofing product is to request material safety data sheet.

Safely Fireproofing Detroit 

Is fireproofing dangerous to health

Many fireproof coatings Detroit materials may be irritating to the eyes, skin and the respiratory tract including the throat, lungs, and nose. Workers who work around fireproofing have reported pneumonia, asthma, nosebleeds, bronchitis, sinus infections, sore throat, flu-like symptoms, sneezing, eye irritation, shortness of breath, cough and dry and itchy skin. Corrosive ingredients present in cement, alum, and lime may also cause chemical burns. The new fireproof coatings in Detroit materials do not contain asbestos, and this makes them less likely to cause cancer.

The health effects of any fireproofing material will depend on your dose.

Working safely around spray-on fireproofing

It is important for you to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for any product when fireproofing. The following protective gear and work practice may also help you to reduce exposure.

1.       Mixing: When mixing, always use equipment that reduces the amount of dust released. It is important to use mixers that are equipped with dust covers. Use bag opening and pouring techniques to minimize dust. Continuous mixers are preferable to the paddle and drum type. It is necessary to use exhaust fans especially if mixing in areas that are enclosed.

2.       Spraying: the combination air/water and multi water point are more effective than the conventional single water point when it comes to reducing fiver levels and dust. Before applying fireproofing, all attachments such as hangers, clips, sleeves should be in place.

3.       Power tools: equip all the power tools that must come in contact with the material with a HEPA- filtered dust collection system.

4.       Welding: fireproofing that has polystyrene emit sulfur dioxide if they are heated to extreme temperatures. It is recommended to remove it before cutting steel or welding.

5.       Removal: make sure the material is wet before attempting to remove it. You can remove wet material by cutting it with a scraper or knife. Wet material should be placed in a bag and then sealed for disposal. Small areas should be removed at a time and then use a drop sheet to collect the scrap material.

6.       Protective clothing: protect your eyes, skin with loose fitting clothing and goggles or face shield when you are working directly with fireproofing.