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Polyester Resin Safety

Polyester resin is a substance used in industrial gel coatings for marine, automotive, and electronic products, wind turbine blades. It is also used in the manufacture of fiber reinforced plastics (FRP), also known as fiberglass. The material is flammable and harmful to humans; therefore, a number of safety guidelines must be followed for its use.

  1. Respiratory Protection

    • Wear a self-contained breathing apparatus, such as a vapor mask, and work in a well-ventilated area when working with a polyester resin. If you generate dust as a result of using a sander or grinder when working with the substance, then you should wear a dusk mask. If inhaled, the product can cause irritation in the upper respiratory tract, nausea and, in extreme cases, suffocation. If the substance is inhaled, move to a a well-ventilated area and rest. Obtain immediate medical help.

    Eye Protection

    • Wear eye protection, such as safety-approved splash goggles, if you're working with any polyester resin where splashing can occur. The substance is an eye irritant; therefore, if any of the chemical gets into your eyes, rinse the eyes out with water for at least 15 minutes and seek immediate medical help.

    Skin Protection

    • Follow the appropriate skin protection measures when working with any polyester resin. Wear chemical-resistant gloves made of neoprene or butyl rubber and apply a solvent-resistant barrier cream, such as DCP Barrier Skin Cream. Wear full length trousers, long sleeved shirts and safety boots as well. Polyester resin is a skin irritant and can cause redness and dermatitis. Therefore, to remove the substance from the skin, wash with plenty of soap and water. Remove all contaminated clothing. Seek medical advice if the irritation persists.

    Ingestion

    • Drink plenty of water and seek immediate medical help if you accidentally ingest the substance. Do not induce vomiting.

    Fire

    • Protect yourself from fire by storing the substance in a cool, dry place. Keep the chemical away from heavy metal compounds, acids, alkalies, or rust and do not expose it to the air, sunlight or any type of heat source. If a fire does result, the flames should be extinguished with a dry chemical or carbon dioxide. Never use a direct stream of water as this can re-ignite the resin compound. However, containers of the substance exposed to the fire can be cooled with water to keep them from exploding. A self-contained breathing apparatus and fireproof clothing should be worn when fighting the fire.

    Disposal

    • Eliminate all potential sources of ignition in the case of spills or leaks. Ventilate the area and wear protective equipment and clothing to remove the chemical. The liquid should be pumped into a salvage truck and disposed in accordance with state and Federal regulations.

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