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Isocyanates

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Overview

Isocyanates are used to make polyurethane, a synthetic material that has many commercial and industrial uses. The most common forms of isocyanates are toluene diisocyanate (TDI), methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI), and hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI).

Isocyanates are extremely hazardous. You are exposed when you breathe the vapors or get the chemicals on your skin (which will absorb Isocyanates like a sponge). Isocyanates don’t have a distinctive odor, so you cannot use your sense of smell to protect you.

All available content

  • Fact sheets
    • Isocyanates
      Describes what isocyanates are, why they're extreme health hazards, and how employees can protect themselves.
      English  12/08/2014
  • Hazard alerts
    • Diisocyanates in spray-on (truck) bed liners
      Hazard alert on the health affects of diisocyanates. Information about Oregon OSHA’s local enforcement emphasis program to identify specific industries for health inspections where diisocyanates are used.
      English  12/04/2006
  • Quick facts
    • Diisocianatos
       Diisocyanates
      Datos rápidos para trabajadores sobre los diisocianatos. Los diisocianatos son productos químicos que se usan para hacer el poliuretano. Si usa productos que contienen poliuretano donde trabaja, debería saber acerca de los diisocianatos, quienes pueden irritar sus ojos, garganta, nariz, y piel. - | - Quick facts for employees about diisocyanates. Diisocyanates are chemicals used to make polyurethane. If you use products that contain polyurethane where you work, you should know about diisocyanates, which can irritate your eyes, throat, nose, and skin.
      Spanish  09/11/2012

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