Installing spray foam insulation can be a hazardous job. Only experienced and qualified contractors with the right equipment should handle spray foam applications. Still, professional spray foam contractors need to wear the proper protective equipment. Doing so prevents the top safety risks of installing spray foam insulation.
Exposure to Chemicals
During the spray foam installation process, the chemical foam releases odors and hazardous fumes that can be harmful to your health. Avoid exposure to such chemicals by always wearing the proper PPE (personal protective equipment) during spray foam installation, at least until the materials have had time to cure. Some of the signs of spray foam exposure include the symptoms below.
Irritated Eyes and Skin
When spray foam touches your face, eyes, hands, or other exposed skin areas, it may irritate the affected areas. Avoid contact with spray foam during the installation by wearing the proper PPE to protect your skin and eyes, which includes safety goggles or glasses, gloves, an insulated suit, and a head cover.
Lung and Throat Irritation
Spray foam application produces particles that drift through the air. You can potentially breathe these in. Inhaling spray foam fumes and particles causes lung and throat irritation, which can make you feel sick. This is why many spray foam contractors pair their safety goggles with a respirator or face mask to prevent themselves from inhaling the particles and fumes.
Burns
Spray foam rigs heat the chemical foam materials to high temperatures, which can cause burns. Burns are less common effects of spray foam contact. However, it’s still important to be cautious around hot chemical foam.
These top safety risks of installing spray foam insulation are prime examples of why it’s so important to wear spray foam PPE during every installation job. If you’re interested in or using a contractor spray foam system, you likely already know the safety precautions to take during installation. However, don’t ever skimp on the appropriate PPE under any circumstances, regardless of your experience with spray foam.
