Where It Comes From
Made from metallurgical slag; used for thermal and sound insulation in buildings, ships, and equipment [1].
How You Are Exposed
Handling, cutting, installing, or removing insulation; disturbing old materials; workplace air; dust settling on skin, hair, and clothes [1][3].
Why It Matters
Can cause itchy skin, eye irritation, sore throat, and cough that usually go away after exposure stops; IARC classifies insulation glass, rock, and slag wool as “not classifiable” for cancer (Group 3), while some special-purpose fibers are “possibly carcinogenic” (Group 2B) [2]; dust may aggravate asthma/bronchitis [1][3].
Who Is at Risk
Manufacturing workers; construction/insulation installers; demolition and maintenance crews; DIY users; people with asthma or sensitive skin [1][3].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Use ventilation or local exhaust; wet methods and HEPA vacuums; wear gloves, long sleeves, and eye protection; use an N95 or better when dusty; avoid dry sweeping/compressed air; wash exposed skin and launder work clothes separately [1][3].
References
- [1]ATSDR. ToxFAQs for Synthetic Vitreous Fibers (SVFs). 2004.
- [2]IARC. Man-made vitreous fibres. IARC Monographs, Vol. 81, 2002.
- [3]CDC/NIOSH. Manmade Mineral Fibers – Workplace Safety & Health Topics.