WASHINGTON - The US Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) announced a new to protect workers from the serious health effects from occupational exposure to isocyanates on 25 June.
The emphasis program is scheduled to run for three years says OSHA. The program aims to focus outreach efforts and inspections on specific hazards in an industry with emphasis on workplaces in general, construction and maritime industries to reduce occupational illnesses and deaths.
"Workers exposed to isocyanates can suffer debilitating health problems for months or even years after exposure," said Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health Dr. David Michaels. "Through this program, OSHA will strengthen protections for workers exposed to isocyanates."
OSHA said jobs that involve exposure to isocyanates include: "the spray-on polyurethane manufacturing of products such as mattresses and car seats, and protective coatings for truck beds, boats, and decks."
OSHA's provides additional information on recognizing potential hazards, as well as OSHA standards that address isocyanates in the general, construction and maritime industries.
