SPF Health and Safety - Spray Polyurethane Foam Health + Safety

Worker and worksite safety starts with understanding the types of SPF and their various uses. Always follow safe handling guidance when working with SPF chemicals throughout every stage of the installation. Explore the topics below for more information.

Planning and Site Preparation

Learn what factors to consider when planning a high-pressure SPF installation. Will the building be occupied? Should it be vacated? What workers should be present?

Personal Protective Equipment

Wearing proper PPE can minimize exposure to SPF chemicals via inhalation or skin or eye contact.

Spill Response

Accidents can happen. In the event of a spill, be prepared with an emergency spill containment kit that includes absorbent materials to minimize the affected area.

Disposal of Chemicals

Properly disposing of any remaining SPF chemicals is a crucial part of an SPF application. Disposal includes regulatory requirements for drums containing SPF.

Reoccupancy

Learn how to determine reoccupancy and reentry times based on the SPF formulation, amount of foam applied, temperature, humidity, ventilation, and other variables.

OSHA Regulations

When it comes to OSHA regulations relating to SPF application, go right to the source. Always read and understand the manufacturers’ Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and drum or container labels before starting SPF application.

Hazard Communication Respiratory Protection Consultation Program Personal Protective Equipment

Potential Health Hazards of SPF Chemicals

Before SPF work beings, it is imperative to read all information contained in your supplier’s Safety Data Sheet (SDS). SDSs are the primary sources of extensive and specific information on methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI), polymeric MDI (PMDI), and other spray polyurethane system ingredients. Many different variables are present during SPF application, so each case should be evaluated individually, but a worker could be exposed to SPF chemicals by breathing chemical mists or vapors, skin or eye contact, or ingestion. Appropriate protection measures should be taken.

“Early recognition of sensitization and prompt and strict elimination of exposures is essential to reduce the risk of long-term or permanent respiratory problems for workers who have become sensitized.”
— National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)

Refer to your supplier’s SDS for a complete listing of the composition and potential health effects of A- and B-side chemicals, but here are a few key points:

A-Side Chemicals

Inhalation can cause 1) irritation of the nose, throat, and lungs, causing runny nose, sore throat, coughing, tightness in the chest, and shortness of breath, and 2) respiratory tract sensitization (e.g., the development of asthma) with symptoms of chest tightness, shortness of breath, coughing, and/or wheezing. An asthma attack can be life-threatening.
Skin contact can cause 1) irritation, and 2) sensitization (allergy). Symptoms include reddening, itching, swelling, and rash. Skin contact alone may lead to respiratory sensitization.
Eye contact can cause reddening, tearing, stinging, and/or swelling of the eyes.

B-Side Chemicals

Inhalation can cause irritation of the respiratory tract, causing cough, sore throat, and runny nose. Cardiac arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat) is a symptom of overexposure to certain blowing agents.
Skin contact with some amine catalysts may lead to skin sensitization.
Eye contact can cause irritation of the eyes (liquid or vapor). Vapors of some amine catalysts can temporarily cause vision to become foggy or blurry, and halos may appear around bright objects such as lights.

Engineering Controls

Proper containment and ventilation techniques can help protect workers and building occupants from potential chemical exposure due to SPF application, particularly in interior applications when buildings cannot be vacated.

Workplace Containment

Isolates and removes chemicals from the work area, creating a contained workspace. It’s most effective when a workspace is as close to airtight as possible. Once a workspace is contained, clearly mark the area and restrict entry to personnel wearing PPE.

Ventilation Design

Uses one or more fans to draw air to or from the workspace and create a negative pressure inside the workspace and remove chemicals from the isolated area. Ideally, exhaust is released to an unoccupied space where it is not likely to be drawn through an air intake.

Training Options

Learn safety techniques with free SPF training courses for applicators, helpers, and weatherization crews.

exterior home window with foam sprayed in walls

SPF for Weatherization

Are you an SPF weatherization contractor? Get the basics on installing SPF insulation for energy efficiency.

Resource Library

Explore additional SPF safety resources, including workbooks, guidelines, information sheets, and more.