What is fiberglass rash?
Table of Contents
Fiberglass rash can be described as a type that is a result of mechanical skin irritation caused by the penetration of tiny pieces or spicules of fiberglass into the stratum corneum of the skin. Sometimes, allergic contact dermatitis could occur due in response to the resins which cover the fiberglass pieces. The rash caused by fiberglass can be seen in a variety of work environments that involve the production and use of fiberglass.
Causes for fiberglass rash
The main cause for fiber glass rash is the unprotective exposure to fiber glass work. The penetration of tiny pieces or spicules of fiberglass into the stratum corneum of the skin,can lead to develop fiberglass rash. This can happen in a variety of workplace settings that require the use and creation of fibreglass. Examples include:
- Construction industry
- Electronics industry
- Factories producing fibreglass-reinforced plastics
- Manufacturing of panel insulation
- The industry of wind energy.
Symptoms
Fiberglass rash affects areas that are exposed, such as the neck, face forearms, as well as hands. Flexible surfaces like wrists and antecubital fossae could be troublesome due to the increased accumulation of fibers sweat, friction, and sweat on these areas. Paronychia is common. A high amount of airborne fiberglass particles could also cause rash of fiberglass, which could be related to burning eyes, sore throats as well as cough.
The clinical signs of fiberglass rash could include:
- Papules, vesicles, and excoriations
- Rash may be follicular
- Skin redness and irritation
- Scale, lichenification, and desquamation
- Itching
- Infrequently, ulceration and fissures and the sensation of burning.
Family members may suffer from rash caused by fiberglass after contact with clothing worn by the worker.
Treatments for fiberglass rash
your physician may prescribe medicines. Examples include:
- Steroid creams and ointments. These topically applied creams or ointments can help ease the irritation that is caused by contact dermatitis. A topical steroid can be applied a couple of times daily for two or four weeks.
- Oral medicines. In severe cases doctors may prescribe oral corticosteroids for reducing inflammation, antihistamines for relief of itching or antibiotics for an infection caused by bacteria.
Prevention
When working with fiberglass it is recommended to follow the following guidelines: New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene recommends the following:
- Avoid touching any materials that could contain fiberglass.
- Wear a particulate respiratory mask to safeguard your throat, lungs and the nose.
- Eye protection is essential. Wear sides shields, or think about wearing goggles.
- Wear gloves.
- wear Long-legged, loose fitting and long-sleeved garments.
- Get rid of any clothing you may have used during the fabrication process immediately after finishing the process.
- Wash the clothes you wear while working with fiberglass in a separate manner. As per the IDPH After the clothing exposed has been cleaned the machine must be thoroughly rinsed.
- Clean surfaces that are exposed by using a damp mop or a vacuum that has a high-efficiency particle air (HEPA) filter. Avoid stirring up dust through cleaning with dry sweeps or other methods.
