Where It Comes From
Made by melting rock or blast-furnace slag and spinning it into fibers; found in batts, boards, pipe insulation, and acoustic/fireproof panels [1].
How You Are Exposed
Cutting, installing, or removing insulation; disturbing old materials in attics/walls; manufacturing and construction work; dust during transport or cleanup [1][3].
Why It Matters
Can cause temporary itching, redness, sore throat, and cough; most rockwool fibers are not deeply persistent in the lungs; IARC: rock/slag wool is “not classifiable” for cancer risk [1][2].
Who Is at Risk
Installers, demolition/maintenance workers, DIY renovators; people with asthma/COPD or skin conditions; anyone working in dusty, poorly ventilated areas [1][3].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Wear gloves, long sleeves, eye protection, and a well-fitted N95; use low-dust or wet cutting; ventilate; clean with a HEPA vacuum (avoid dry sweeping); bag waste; wash up and launder work clothes separately [1][3].
References
- [1]ATSDR. Toxicological Profile/ToxFAQs for Synthetic Vitreous Fibers (including rock and slag wool). 2004.
- [2]IARC Monographs, Volume 81 (2002). Man-made vitreous fibres. Rock/slag wool: Group 3 (not classifiable).
- [3]CDC/NIOSH. Workplace Safety & Health Topic: Man-Made Vitreous Fibers (MMVF) and fiberglass—exposure controls and PPE.