Without a safe work procedure, these fibres can also cause short term irritation to the skin, eyes and upper respiratory tract among workers involved in the manufacture or installation of insulation products. Binding resins and oils are used during the manufacture of fibreglass insulation to stiffen and bond the fibres together and to prevent them from becoming airborne. These binders can also cause irritation. Skin irritation Fibreglass dust and fibres may cause a stinging, itchy sensation when rubbed on the skin. This can happen to people working with fibreglass insulation, and it occurs particularly in folds of skin around wrists, collars and waistbands.
Perspiration aggravates the condition.
Most people quickly develop tolerance and hence the irritation may be temporary. Showering to remove the fibres will provide relief. Fibreglass insulation installed in buildings does not have adverse health effects on occupants. There is inadequate evidence to show glass wool causes cancer in humans. As an overall evaluation, glass wool is possibly carcinogenic to humans.