What are the health effects of airborne fiberglass dust?
The
effects of fiberglass dust must be separated into the long term and
short term categories. Because the use of fiberglass has increased
dramatically in recent years, there is relatively little epidemiological
data on its long term effects.
The glass fibers break off in a fundamentally different way than do
those of asbestos. Because of this, many experts maintain that there
is very little likelihood that fiberglass dust will cause cancer.
However, the state of California does require that fiberglass be labeled
as a potential carcinogen.
The short term effects are much clearer and are created by the sharp,
hard, and abrasive qualities of the glass fibers. These qualities
will cause irritation of the respiratory tract with associated coughing
and scratchy throat.
Those who breathe through their mouths are particularly vulnerable
to this condition, since the hairs in the nose filter out many of
the particles. In addition, the abrasive particles can cause irritations
to the eyes and skin.
Because of these detrimental effects, health and safety authorities
often advise people who work in areas where fiberglass dust is likely
to be produced to wear dust masks to avoid breathing in the fibers,
to use eye protection to keep the dust out, and to wear long sleeve
shirts and pants to protect their skin.
A well designed air cleaner with a HEPA filter, like the NQ
Commercial Clarifier, can serve to reduce significantly the amount
of fiberglass dust that could become airborne when there is a breakdown
of fiberglass insulation from a duct or an HVAC unit.
As always, for maximum protection, it is important to address the
problem at the source.
