Fiberglass is plastic reinforced with glass fibers. It has many desirable properties, but it can have adverse effects.
Adverse effects:
(1) pulmonary infiltrates second to fiberglass dust inhalation, occasionally leading to pulmonary fibrosis
(2) foreign body dermatitis to the fibers
(3) allergy contact dermatitis (related to the plastic resin)
(4) ocular foreign body
People at greatest risk:
(1) industrial or commercial applications
(2) carpenters, plumbers or other workers exposed to fiberglass dust
(3) handlers of fiberglass insulation
Adverse effects can be reduced by proper respiratory, eye and skin personal protective equipment (PPE).
Fibers embedded in unprotected skin can be removed using adhesive tape.
Investigation of adverse reactions to fiberglass should include identification of the plastic being used and its curing byproducts.
