Fiberglass insulation is a commonly used material in construction, valued for its thermal and acoustic properties. It is manufactured by melting raw ingredients like silica sand and limestone, then spinning the molten glass into fine fibers bound with resin. The primary concern involves inhaling these microscopic glass fibers, which are released when the insulation is disturbed during installation, removal, or renovation work.
Acute Health Effects of Exposure
The immediate health effects of fiberglass exposure are primarily mechanical, resulting from the physical contact of the fibers with the body. Contact with the skin can cause fiberglass dermatitis, characterized by itching, stinging, and a rash. This irritation occurs when small glass shards become temporarily embedded in the skin. These effects are generally short-lived, subsiding once exposure ceases and the fibers are removed.
Inhaling larger airborne fibers can irritate the upper respiratory tract, causing a sore throat, coughing, or temporary nasal irritation. If fibers enter the eyes, they can cause temporary redness and conjunctivitis. These acute reactions are a direct physical response to the fibers acting as irritants.
Long-Term Respiratory Risks from Inhalation
The long-term risk relates specifically to inhaling fine, respirable fibers. Respirable fibers are small enough to bypass the body’s natural filtering mechanisms and penetrate deep into the lower lung regions, such as the alveoli. While insulation fibers are typically larger, cutting or disturbing the material can generate smaller, inhalable fragments.
A primary element determining long-term risk is biopersistence—the fiber’s ability to remain in the lung without dissolving. Modern fiberglass insulation uses biosoluble glass fibers designed to dissolve quickly in lung fluid. This dissolution allows the body to clear the material more efficiently, reducing the potential for chronic inflammation or scarring.
The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) reviewed the evidence in 2001 and reclassified fiberglass insulation wool. It moved the material from Group 2B (“possibly carcinogenic to humans”) to Group 3 (“not classifiable as to its carcinogenicity to humans”). This change was based on epidemiologic studies of manufacturing workers that showed no evidence of increased lung cancer or other non-malignant pulmonary disease from exposure to modern biosoluble fibers. Individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, such as asthma or chronic bronchitis, may find that exposure to airborne fiberglass dust exacerbates their symptoms.
Mandatory Safety Protocols for Handling
Working with fiberglass requires strict adherence to safety protocols to prevent acute irritation and fiber inhalation. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is the first line of defense. Workers should always wear a properly fitted respirator, such as an N95 or P100 model, to filter out airborne fibers.
Skin and eye protection are necessary to avoid mechanical irritation. Full-coverage attire should be worn to prevent fibers from reaching the skin.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Wear safety goggles and heavy-duty gloves.
- Use loose-fitting, full-coverage attire, such as disposable coveralls, long-sleeved shirts, and long pants.
- A head covering is recommended, especially when working overhead.
Control of the work environment minimizes fiber concentration. Maximize ventilation by opening doors and windows or using local exhaust systems. Cleaning should be done with a HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filter vacuum, as sweeping or using compressed air can re-suspend fibers. Contaminated clothing should be washed separately, and workers should shower immediately after handling the material. Dispose of the insulation by sealing it in heavy-duty plastic bags.