Where It Comes From
Making or using polyurethane products—spray foam insulation, truck bed liners, auto spray painting, floor/wood finishes, and industrial coatings [1][2].
How You Are Exposed
Breathing vapors or mists during spraying, heating, or cutting; skin or eye contact with uncured products; indoor air during and shortly after installation; take-home residues on work clothes [1][2].
Why It Matters
Can cause sensitization and asthma; once sensitized, very low levels can trigger severe attacks; also eye/skin irritation. Toluene diisocyanates are possibly carcinogenic (IARC Group 2B) [1][3].
Who Is at Risk
Workers in polyurethane manufacturing and application (insulation installers, auto refinishers), DIY users of spray foam, and people with asthma or poor ventilation at the job/site [1][2].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Prefer isocyanate-free or water-based products; use trained pros; keep others away and ventilate well during application and curing; wear proper respirator, gloves, and protective clothing; wash work clothes separately; stop exposure and seek care if you develop wheeze, cough, or rash [1][2][4].
References
- [1]CDC/NIOSH. Isocyanates – Safety and Health Topic.
- [2]U.S. EPA. Isocyanates: Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF) Chemical Safety Information.
- [3]IARC. Monographs on the Evaluation of Carcinogenic Risks to Humans: Toluene Diisocyanates (Group 2B).
- [4]ATSDR. Toxicological Profile for Toluene Diisocyanates and Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate (MDI).