High-performance Polyurethane Coatings Offer Advantages

Polyurethane coatings are known for their high-performance parameters. Trained contractors using appropriate engineering controls and proper personal protective equipment are safely applying these coatings in a broad variety of site applications to obtain advantages such as faster return to service, enhanced aesthetics and long-term protection.

Catherine Sayles, senior industrial hygienist, Bayer MaterialScience LLC, will present “Safe application of high-performance polyurethane coatings” at 8:30 a.m., Wednesday, Feb. 12, during the SSPC conference held in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. Sayles will discuss the safe use of polyurethane coatings, which use isocyanates as a raw material,  applied in the field on commercial and industrial infrastructure; share results of measurements performed during polyurethane coatings applications; and provide recommendations for worker safety.

Safe handling recommendations, training, and on-site monitoring are components of the Bayer MaterialScience LLC supplier’s product stewardship program. Programs such as these should aid contractors in preparing for an inspection as well as addressing concerns that may arise from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s recently announced National Emphasis Program (NEP) for isocyanates. Part of the NEP’s focus is providing information, training and assistance to workers who are involved in the application and use of isocyanates. 

“When high-performance coatings such as polyurethanes and polyaspartics are used safely by trained and conscientious contractors, they can have a positive effect on buildings and infrastructure far outlasting less durable competitive technologies,” Sayles explained. “Other advantages are shorter down time, enhanced aesthetics and reduced total repair costs.”

As a global leader in the development and manufacture of advanced materials for industry, Bayer demonstrates leadership through advancement of health, safety and environmental awareness initiatives, and through development and adoption of best practices for the transportation, storage, handling and disposal of these materials. Its product stewardship efforts are demonstrated in a website called Product Safety First, where numerous safe use and handling documents can be found. Please visit  www.productsafetyfirst.bayer.com.