Safety- poly resin , MEKp my boss might be a butthead

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Concerns were raised about safety practices in a lab environment, specifically regarding the handling of polyester resin and MEKP without proper respiratory protection. The Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) indicates that a respirator is recommended when airborne concentrations exceed safe levels, although the presence of a fume hood may mitigate this risk. The discussion highlighted the importance of wearing appropriate personal protective equipment, including goggles and protective clothing, especially when dealing with potentially toxic materials. There was also a reflection on personal safety practices, acknowledging past oversights, such as not using goggles over prescription glasses and experiencing a minor chemical splash. The conversation emphasized the need for better safety protocols and communication about protective measures in the workplace.
Hydrangea
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On a side note, does anyone think it is crummy that I had to pour and mix polyester resin, MEKP , (fume hood available), while my boss took solvents and chemicals out of the fume hood for weighing etc? I was not provided a respirator, even though all the MSDS s and most forums indicate it is usual... :(
 
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Hydrangea said:
On a side note, does anyone think it is crummy that I had to pour and mix polyester resin, MEKP , (fume hood available), while my boss took solvents and chemicals out of the fume hood for weighing etc? I was not provided a respirator, even though all the MSDS s and most forums indicate it is usual... :(

Actually the MSDS says:
http://noracperoxides.com/msds/Norox_MEKP/MEKP-9_MSDS.pdf
If airborne concentrations are expected to exceed acceptable levels wear a NIOSH
approved air-purifying respirator with an organic vapor cartridge or canister. When
using respirators refer to OSHA’s 29CFR 1910.134
It also states that by inhalation it is moderately toxic, but a severe skin and eye irritant.

Since you had a fume hood the level of airborne concentration should have been acceptable.

From the MSDS, a greater worry would have been about a lack of both goggles for eye protection and protective clothing and gloves for skin protection, but since you did not mention that it seems not to have worried you or the items were available.

Not saying you are incorrect in feeling apprehensive. Perhaps discuss with your boss about aquiring resperators to be available, since when handling toxic material always expect the unexpected.
 
256bits said:
Actually the MSDS says:
http://noracperoxides.com/msds/Norox_MEKP/MEKP-9_MSDS.pdf

Right. Thank you re: skin contact, eye advice.

What about the polyester resin? I did read the thing. But I have been reading so many this last week I have tuned them out in a way. TMI.
Lol, yes: protective clothing donned. I wear spec.s, so I admittedly ought to have had on goggles over top. I have the bad habit of thinking the glasses are enough.

Now that you mention it, I am guilty of missing the forest- trees. I was cleaning up and a little bit of acetone splashed onto my face. Ick. My eyes were safe. Guess I hardly have room to complain-- one of those moments where you are embarrassed at your mistake so I ignore it.(wiped on my lab coat arm).

I guess it bugged me that she didn't seem to have issue with having the chemicals opened up and then started to pour the mekp on the open bench top . I know I shouldn't gripe because after all, "who amongst is perfect?" Like, I'm throwing stones from my glass house, when actually, I'm sure I've done all of the same. Deep breath!

Thanks for your response!
 
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