Is fiberglass used anymore?

Feb. 04, 2024

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&nbsp &nbsp Checkrate/Likes &nbsp&nbsp &nbspI'm familiar with Fiberglas

My dad worked for Fiberglas for around 35 years designing plant machinery and systems. They were a fair sized local employer here. They were good for hiring the the sons of employee's in the plant for summer and Xmas holidays etc and I did a stint there when I was 16. They paid very well too. However it was beyond horrible. The plant made the wool batt insulation, pipe insulation and ceiling tiles. I got stuck on the wool batt line, the worst. It was literally an oven in there to melt the glass on top of the already 85+ degree heat and humidity outside. The glass (in the form of marbles) is melted along with other chemicals and poured down into these giant sized spinners, like a cotton candy machine. A steady flow of that blown wool would then make it ways thru different shaping and cutting machinery depending on the R type that was being manufactured at the time. There were iir 5 lines and at the end of each line 3 guys who rotated position every 20 minutes. You'd stand alongside the conveyor at your station as the formed batts came down and pick them off, holding the first one or two while the 3rd etc slid under then quickly turn and drop them on a compressing machine.. when you'd put the right amount in , the 2nd guy would holding them secure while the ram came down and compressed them to about 1 inch, and then a side ram would shove them into the pink bag on the side.. the 3rd guys was putting the bags on and hefting the filled bags onto a cart. All we were were safety boots, gloves and cut offs and a hardhat. There were no masks or safety glasses. And usually no shirt because it was so friggin hot in there.. All the while this is going on they had big industrial fans blowing on you . The place was literally covered in fiberglass dust and so was the air we were breathing. It closed in the 80's and everything was moved to Mexico. Most of the employees are dead early (like my dad and uncle) or dying of terrible cancers (like my dad and uncle did) .

Understanding Fiberglass Insulation

Fiberglass insulation is a type of thermal insulating material made from fine glass fibers. These fibers are spun from molten glass and formed into batts, blankets, or loose-fill insulation, which is then installed within walls, ceilings, and attics to provide a barrier against heat transfer. The problem is that when handled fiberglass insulation creates fiberglass dust which can be inhaled or imbedded in skin.

The Dangers of Fiberglass Insulation

Skin Irritation and Respiratory Issues

One of the primary dangers associated with fiberglass insulation is its potential to cause skin irritation and respiratory problems. The tiny glass fibers, if released into the air during installation or when disturbed, can easily be inhaled or come into contact with the skin. Prolonged exposure to these airborne particles can lead to itching, redness, and irritation of the skin.

If you do get fiberglass imbedded in your skin, wash with soap and warm water as soon as possible.

Inhalation of fiberglass particles may cause respiratory issues such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath, particularly for individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions like asthma. The California Office of Environmental and Health Hazard Assessment even labeled certain types of fiberglass insulation as cancer causing. These types of fiberglass bats are generally not used anymore and the types of fiberglass used today are not known to cause cancer.

Suggested reading:
Minerals & Metallurgy

Eye Irritation

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Another concern is the risk of eye irritation when fiberglass particles come into contact with the eyes. Direct exposure can lead to redness, tearing, and discomfort. It is essential to wear protective eyewear when working with fiberglass insulation to minimize this risk.

Precautions and Safety Measures

To ensure safe handling and installation of fiberglass insulation, follow these precautions:

Wear Protective Gear: When working with fiberglass insulation, wear protective clothing, gloves, a dust mask, and safety goggles to minimize direct contact with the fibers and prevent inhalation.
Ventilate the Area: Adequate ventilation during installation helps to reduce the concentration of airborne particles and minimize exposure risks.
Seal Off the Work Area: Isolate the work area from the rest of the living space to prevent fiberglass particles from spreading to other areas.
Use Professional Installation: If you are not experienced in working with insulation materials, consider hiring a professional insulation installer who has the necessary knowledge and equipment to handle the material safely.

Fiberglass insulation has been a staple in the construction industry for its thermal insulating properties. However, it is essential to recognize the potential dangers associated with its improper handling or exposure. By understanding the risks and taking appropriate safety measures, homeowners and workers can mitigate the health hazards linked to fiberglass insulation. Whether you are a DIY enthusiast or hiring professionals, prioritizing safety ensures that the benefits of insulation outweigh the potential dangers, making your living space comfortable and safe for years to come.