Fibrous glass

Synonyms

Fiber glas; Fiberglass; Glass fibers; Glass wool;

Category

Synthetic Vitreous Fibers

Sources/Uses

Usually produced from borosilicate and low-alkali silicate glasses; [NIOSH] 1) continuous filament fibers used in textiles and plastics, or 2) wool-type fibers used in acoustic panels, air ducts, and insulation;

Comments

Insulation glass wool is not classifiable as to carcinogenicity to humans. [IARC] Glass filaments and glass wool are regulated by OSHA as nuisance dusts. Fibrous glass dust causes skin irritation. Reviewed by ACGIH in 1999 as "Synthetic vitreous fibers." See "Synthetic vitreous fibers."

Biomedical References

No

5 mg/m3, inhal. Fraction (continuous filament glass fiber), 1 respir. fiber/cc(glass wool and special purpose glass fibers)

Anticipated human carcinogen

Processes

Industrial Processes with risk of exposure:

• Insulation Installing and Removing
• Plastic Composites Manufacturing
• Textiles (Fiber & Fabric Manufacturing)