Are you already prepared for the new regulations surrounding the use of diisocyanates? Diisocyanates are an important component of adhesives and sealants and professional coatings and lacquers. Especially when inhaled, these substances can cause severe allergies, such as asthma. But skin contact can also lead to an allergic reaction. Once you have had an allergic reaction, you are basically forced to choose another profession.

If a product contains more than 0.1% free diisocyanates, the user is required to undergo training on proper use.

European legislation stipulates that from August 24, 2023, all products containing more than 0.1% of so-called free diisocyanates may only be used after the user has received training explaining, among other things, the risks and proper protective measures. This training must be repeated every five years. The Labor Inspectorate takes care of enforcement, but obviously the user is primarily responsible for his own health and safety. This is also the purpose of the measure: to protect people and the environment from unacceptable risks from hazardous chemicals. Because with diisocyanates you can basically work safely, as long as you do it in the right way.

This measure particularly impacts our customers who use sealants, adhesives and two-component urethane coatings in which diisocyanate reacts with another substance. Consider companies in

• yacht building
• the auto body repair
• aircraft construction
• interior construction

Above all, the measure will also raise awareness that adhesives, sealants and coatings can be harmful to health. How often do we see the kitter who briefly wets his fingertip in his mouth to smooth the fresh sealant. Gluing without further protection. We all do it without thinking. So awareness is an important step!

But still...

Protection by PPE is at the bottom of the occupational hygiene strategy and is thus a last resort if all other measures are not adequate to eliminate danger.

Why are PPE at the bottom of the pyramid? Because the potential danger is still there, both for the person working with them and also for the casual passerby who is unaware of any danger. But also because for optimal performance and protection by PPE you depend on the user. Does he know which mask to use, how maintenance and storage should be. Is the fit right for each person? There are many risk factors that can reduce PPE protection.

Safety starts at the source: there are safe alternatives to conventional sealants, adhesives and sealers.

This is why we are happy to look at source measures with you. There are also safe alternatives for critical applications of sealants, adhesives and sealing. So map out the critical factors of your application and compare these with the technical specifications of safe alternatives such as those offered by Veidec. The vast majority of Veidec sealants, adhesives (including two-pack adhesives) and sealers can be used without additional PPE. So this also results in savings, in addition to great ease of use.

Veidec products may be used without training. Yet another reason to look into this matter and conduct a broader test. There are many opportunities in various areas. Invite us for a comprehensive test! Fill in the contact form on this page.

Blijft het toch nodig om met chemische producten te werken die meer dan 0,1% diisocyanaten bevat, dan is een training dus verplicht. Je leverancier kan je hierbij verder helpen. De Europese vereniging diisocyanaat-producenten heeft een opleidingssysteem opgezet, https://www.safeusediisocyanates.eu/nl/. Je kunt hier een e-learning volgen of een klassikale training zoeken.

Source:

• Central government
• REACH
• VNCI

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