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Assessment and control of exposures to polymeric methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (pMDI) in spray polyurethane foam

Anila Bello1, Yalong Xue2, Rebecca Gore1

  • 1University of Massachusetts Lowell, Department of Public Health, Zuckerberg College of Health Sciences, Lowell, MA, 01854, USA.

International Journal of Hygiene and Environmental Health
|May 12, 2019
PubMed

Insights

Exposure to diphenyl methane diisocyanate (MDI) during spray foam insulation is significant, with many workers exceeding recommended limits. Current practices and controls are insufficient to prevent dermal and inhalation exposure to MDI and its byproducts.

Area of Science:

  • Occupational Health and Safety
  • Environmental Science
  • Industrial Hygiene

Background:

  • Diphenyl methane diisocyanate (MDI) and polymeric MDI (pMDI) are potent sensitizers and irritants used in spray polyurethane foam (SPF) insulation.
  • Potential health risks include asthma, skin/eye irritation, and burns, necessitating exposure assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To characterize personal inhalation and dermal exposures to MDI during SPF insulation.
  • To assess the effectiveness of current workplace practices and exposure controls.
  • To evaluate biomonitoring of methylene diphenyl diamine (MDA) as an indicator of exposure.

Main Methods:

  • Conducted personal air sampling for MDI and glove dosimeter measurements at 14 SPF insulation sites.
  • Collected pre- and post-shift urine samples for MDA biomonitoring.
  • Performed field observations of work practices and exposure controls.

Main Results:

  • Personal MDI inhalation exposures ranged from 0.9 to 123.0 μg/m3 (GM: 13.8 μg/m3).
  • Area samples showed higher MDI concentrations (GM: 40.9 μg/m3).
  • 16% of personal and 35% of area samples exceeded NIOSH REL; 25% of urine samples exceeded HSE BMGV for MDA.

Conclusions:

  • Current workplace practices and controls are inadequate for SPF insulation workers.
  • Significant potential for both inhalation and dermal MDI exposure exists.
  • Improved work practices are crucial to mitigate isocyanate exposures in SPF applications.
Keywords:
Biological monitoringDiphenyl methane diisocyanate (MDI)Isocyanate asthmaPolymeric MDISpray polyurethane foam (SPF)Urine

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