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Occupational Hazards of Working With Contact Cement

Contact cement is used as a synthetic rubber adhesive. According to the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), it contains the ingredients of solvent naphitha, acetone, toluene, synthetic rubber, various resins and hexane. With this combination of ingredients, contact cement meets the OSHA Regulatory Status of a hazardous material. The emergency overview warns it is an extremely flammable liquid with vapors that may cause a flash fire. Along with being flammable, there are other potential health effects from exposure to contact cement.

  1. Eyes

    • The potential effects of contact cement exposure into the eye include irritation, redness, tearing and blurred vision. First aid measures require the eyes to be flushed gently with water for at least 15 minutes. After an extensive rinsing, immediate medical attention is necessary.

    Skin

    • With prolonged or repeated contact with this material, a worker may experience drying of the skin with symptoms of redness, burning, drying and cracking. Skin burns are also a potential risk. The first-aid treatments for skin exposure are to first remove any contaminated clothing. The affected area needs to be washed with soap and water. If symptoms continue, medical attention is required. Any contaminated clothing should be laundered before being worn again.

    Swallowing

    • Upon ingesting this product, gastrointestinal irritation, nausea, diarrhea and vomiting may occur. If vomiting is a symptom, there is the possibility of aspiration of material into the lungs, which can produce chemical pneumonitis. This condition can be fatal. First-aid measures for swallowing contact cement include immediate consultation with a physician or poison control center. Under no circumstances should vomiting be induced. Do not leave the individual unattended or give him anything by mouth. If the victim falls unconscious or becomes drowsy, lie him on his left side with the head down.

    Inhalation

    • Excessive inhalation of contact cement vapors can cause nasal and respiratory irritation, acute nervous system depression, fatigue, weakness, nausea, headache and dizziness. Immediately move the victim to fresh air and seek medical attention. The victim needs to be kept warm and quiet. Provide oxygen if breathing is difficult or labored. If the victim stops breathing, administer CPR.

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