The Wise Crack

Windshield Repair Newsletter

The Wise Crack, published monthly, is the most widely circulated windshield repair newsletter available! It includes windshield repair tips, news, & marketing advice.

Windshield Repair Safety Tip | Working with Sensitizers

A sensitizer is defined by OSHA as "a chemical that causes a substantial proportion of exposed people or animals to develop an allergic reaction in normal tissue after repeated exposure to the chemical."

Two Health Problems Caused by Sensitizers:

Skin sensitization - Skin sensitizers can cause an allergic reaction including redness, a rash, itching, swelling or blisters at the point of contact or elsewhere in the body.
Respiratory sensitization - Respiratory sensitizers can at first cause symptoms similar to a cold or mild hay fever.  However, severe asthmatic symptoms can develop in sensitized workers including wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing and/or coughing.  A severe attack can cause death.
One should generally try to avoid sensitizers.  Nevertheless, during a windshield repair or headlight restoration, technicians don’t have a choice.  You should always remember to use personal protective equipment such as nitrile gloves and a respirator mask when using sensitizers.

Before Working with Sensitizing Materials:
•    Technicians should understand all of the hazards associated with windshield repair and headlight restoration.
•    Technicians should refer to the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for information on hazards, and for precautions to follow for sensitizers they are using.
•    Technicians should be aware of the typical symptoms of an allergic reaction, and they should know the appropriate first aid procedures.
•    Report any signs of illness to your physician and/or supervisor.
•    Prevent unnecessary exposure to sensitizers by always utilizing appropriate personal protective equipment.
•    Only use small quantities of sensitizers in well-ventilated areas. 
•    Always remove any contaminated clothing and wash your hands thoroughly after handling a sensitizer.

Delta Kits has an impeccable safety record and continually strives to provide the safest products in the industry.

 

Author: Korey Gobin

06-23-2011

Back to Newsletter