Concerned about my exposure to fiberglass.

[Sean the Nailer]

Employee Safety and Training is the employer's responsibility.
Employee Safety Equipment is the employer's responsibility to provide, inspect, and upkeep.

Employee USING their assigned PPE is the employee's responsibility to adhere to company policy. It is up to the company to enforce their policies.

OSHA, WCB (do ya'll have that there?) and others would be interested to see how this pans out.

 

[johnnyvw]

If you haven't had any issues from eye irratation, chances are it hasn't been enough to do any lung damage, unless you're a heavy smoker.. Do some research, fiberglass isn't very hazardous:

Synthetic Mineral Fibers - Health Effects | Occupational Safety and Health Administration

www.osha.gov

 

[Crush]

I had a job where we were putting bags of powder into a hopper. The bags all said that it caused cancer. There were two cheap dust masks available and both were clogged and could not be breathed through. I worked one day and never went back. They fucked me out of my one day of pay.

I would never risk my health and future for a job.

 

[chevy_man]

Concrete dust/silicate is going to be the next asbestos.

The fiberglass industry paid to have their product confirmed safe long ago.



Stupid question, why the hell are they putting insulation in cabinets? Are they fridges/freezers?

 

[Thumper580]

29CFR1910.134 OSHA Respiratory Protection Standard!!!!!!. 31 years in corporate safety... A matter of time before fiberglass becomes the next asbestos.... OSHA treats fiberglass like a nuisance dust. IMHO its inadequate. At the very least get yourself some NIOSH approved N95 disposable particulate respirators. These will adequately filter filter out fiberglass fibers. Anyone is fine as long as it is NIOSH N95...... Coveralls would be nice or at least blow off your clothing before you go home (while still wearing your respirator).

 

[K470]

Call your local OSHA office or use this phone number 800-321-6742 and tell them what is going on. You can also take a look at this link for other ways to file a complaint.

File a Complaint | Occupational Safety and Health Administration

www.osha.gov

They will keep your name out of the situation if you request to remain anonymous. Even if you file anonymously you are protected by the Whistleblower laws. Just make sure you aren't violating any company policies unless it directly affects your health and safety. Play the game and let the OSHA rep know what is going on and let them tell you if they think any company actions are retaliatory or not.

Your "safety guy" needs to have air monitoring to determine if the amount of fiberglass in the air is above the established exposure level or not. If not then it is assumed to be above the exposure level until proven otherwise. Doing the air monitoring to prove no exposure is called a negative exposure assessment. Based upon the fact that he told you he can't give you a respirator because you didn't have a fit test tells me they haven't done a negative exposure assessment or knows what that is.

If you go down the road of wearing your own respirator and notify OSHA always wear the respirator when at work. Don't wear it some times and not others. If this goes to court the lawyer for the company will point out you didn't wear it all the time and try to put some of the blame back on you if you are consistent with the usage. I don't think they would have a leg to stand on but lawyers will be lawyers and sling all kinds of crap to see if anything will stick.

PM me if you want more info I have access to a whole staff of seasoned Environmental Safety and Health professionals.

 

[myronman3]

i quit going into attics once i learned what fiberglass does to the lungs.

you are a fucking fool if you keep on with the status quo.

 

[kvpm]

It surprises me how many people suggest running straight to a government agency to solve the problem. Government is not the answer. It should only be the last resort if all else fails.

I recommend starting with some simple precautions like a n95 mask and a battery powered leaf blower to dust yourself off at the end of shift. If you genuinely think your work environment is hazardous to your health, don’t go back to work and knowingly exposure yourself.

Give your safety manager one more try before escalating to a high level admin, VP, Pres, CEO, etc and let him know you are genuinely concerned about the issue. Offer to be part of the solution. Don’t just go and cry to an alphabet gov agency. Don’t give government any more power than need be.

Employers are struggling to find good employees these days. Show some initiative and rational thought to your employer. They might notice your reasonable approach to the situation and offer advancement in your career.

 

[salks]

Yep, it’s fine until suddenly it isn’t…..

yep they started calling them non-asbestos rolls instead of asbestos rolls. problem solved.

 

[Sniperwannabee]

Call osha, your employer should be providing ppe/respirator/masks..

 

[TxWelder35]

It surprises me how many people suggest running straight to a government agency to solve the problem. Government is not the answer. It should only be the last resort if all else fails.

I recommend starting with some simple precautions like a n95 mask and a battery powered leaf blower to dust yourself off at the end of shift. If you genuinely think your work environment is hazardous to your health, don’t go back to work and knowingly exposure yourself.

Give your safety manager one more try before escalating to a high level admin, VP, Pres, CEO, etc and let him know you are genuinely concerned about the issue. Offer to be part of the solution. Don’t just go and cry to an alphabet gov agency. Don’t give government any more power than need be.

Employers are struggling to find good employees these days. Show some initiative and rational thought to your employer. They might notice your reasonable approach to the situation and offer advancement in your career.

This.

I’m also convinced that fiberglass is going to be the next asbestos. That shit is awful. From my research into it the particle size is not as small as asbestos which limits how deep into the lungs it can get, but it definitely can’t be good either way. I avoid the stuff as much as possible now.

Wear a respirator. This is what I wear when welding in confined areas, galvanized materials, doing a lot of grinding or anything else that is going to be fumey.

Amazon product ASIN B013SIIBFQ

 

[unrepentant]

I can't believe the SHIT I'm reading here... Pardon me if I don't mince words and sugar-coat my observations.

Nepa1990, HOW THE FUCK can you be so stupid in today's (industrial) work environment?? No offense, but what I'm reading here is the typical "AVERAGE-intelligence-quotient" American viewpoint - a touted and popular 'opinion' without any reference whatsoever to plain facts.

1) NOBODY gives a fuck how you take care of your health. Not your co-workers, (tough guys all, who don't wanna be bothered with the inconvenience of a bullshit mask like an N95), not your safety officer (who, like Human Resources Dept workers, wanna do as little as possible to fulfill their obligations, avoid office conflicts, and just cash their weekly check) and certainly not the Board of Directors/Owner-s/President-CEO-CFO, et. al., with their eye on profits.

SURE, they "bear responsibility", but only legally (and "morally", if all ya'll insist). In the end, if they don't, YOU DO BEAR RESPONSIBILITY FOR YOURSELF, because even if you (or your heirs) win a monstrous lawsuit for negligent or criminal business practices, the money will not repair your health.

You might wanna follow some of the advice I've read in this thread--go ahead and get a lawyer. I mean, why not? You'll need the money in a couple decades to cover your medical costs. AND THERE WILL DEFINITELY BE MEDICAL TROUBLES AHEAD FOR YOU after 4 years of thoughtless obliviousness.

(I am a former professional auto painter; I worked in a shop where no one else but me wore a "mask" [I'll get to the mask later]). I was regarded as the shop's lone "candy-ass" for wearing a mask and a "pussy" for paying for it myself (every week; they ain't "cheap"). The Corvette body man died at 58 from pnuemonoconiosis -basically, lung disease. If you don't know, all Corvettes are made of fiberglass (or some "plastic/fiber/carbon" substance that is converted to particulate irritants when cut, sanded, or pulverized with a grinder/orbital sander, etc., and in order to repair damaged panels, fiberglass has to be prepped- sanded or ground (into dust) with an abrasive. In essence it's "lighter than air"--which is why you can see it "floating". Gary, the Corvette tech, never ever wore a mask, but in your favor, he worked on Vettes for 20 years; in essence, it caught up with him in 2 decades. (He went out on a lung-related disability when he was 51 years old.)

As to the shop's responsibility, it was too late for him and he knew it. Rather than spend his time litigating, he made the best of the rest of his life traveling and recreating with his family.

2) This commonly-touted advice, "wear an N95 mask". BULLSHIT. This ain't sawdust or lint we're talking about. Fiberglass is silica - miniscule glass PARTICLES (like the windows in your house, they're just as sharp in their "broken" state) - in your case, so fine they'll float in a wind current. Glass particulates in the lungs attach and attack the tissue. There's no way a cheap "$2" N95 will fit correctly nor completely filter fiberglass floaters. If you're stupid enough to go back to work there, or anywhere where these kinds of particulates permeate the breathing air, at least get yourself a proper "mask"- a TC-23C respirator and a box of filters. Two filters last 40 hours. RTFM and learn how to adjust it so's it sits on your face correctly and protects you. Learn how to test the seal between the mask and your face.

As someone has already recommended, shave off all facial hair. Buy Tyvex coveralls and dispose of them weekly, or at the least get cloth coveralls that you wash weekly (and run the washer empty on a rinse cycle after you've removed your coveralls to insure that the washer is "clean"). At least at the shop I worked at coveralls were provided and washed by an industrial laundry company that provided the coveralls. (this was in the 1980's). For the rest, even with Cal-OSHA's reputation and strength in the San Francisco Bay Area, the dealership I worked at got away with refusing to provide respiratory and optical protection, OSHA visits and all.

3) My best advice is, quit your job immediately. It's obvious NO ONE there gives a rat's ass about worker health. Ya know those Hot Rod TV shows- the ones where the "pickers" go and buy some barn find and do the body/paint work, etc., and turn a big profit?- I ain't surprised in the least to see the "talented" workers grind and sand primer, paint, or bondo without a mask. And paint with those bullshit N95 masks, too. Some of the better shows show the painters using a TC-23C respirator, but that "mask" isn't good enough for today's hVOC/HVLP paints, so those guys'll be hurting in 25 years too.

4) Find a Occupational Respiratory Specialist and get yourself THOROUGHLY tested. It's too late for you to be clean, but you need a baseline and all the advice you can get on cleaning up your environment and situation.

Damn the costs. ALL these things matter more than the "instant" poverty of being out of work. Your health is the sum total of your future. All the rest is just money. I've said my peace to "anyone" who's listening and willing to hear.

 

[M7rtim]

This thread is making my lungs hurt

 

[unrepentant]

I guess this topic- the self-inflicted dismissal for concern of one's health, enrages me, because either while sleeping or immediately upon waking, I had another couple thoughts...

Nepa1990, you make a "distinction" that you've been with the company for 4 years, but working specifically with fiberglass for 2.5; there's no good news here except to say that it wasn't 5 years (yet). If you worked all that time on an open floor, as you stated before, the air conditioning or ventilation system would have dispersed the fiberglass everywhere. If you haven't quit, you can go see it for yourself with an attentive eye. Look at any flat surface that hasn't been dusted for proof. If the cabinet-building has been confined to a chamber or solitary room, it's worse news for the workers involved.

In my previous post I wrote about Gary, the Corvette bodyman- I wanna correct an impression I might have given unintentionally- he alone in that shop, worked twenty years with Vettes, but not daily. He probably had to fix one Corvette every 3-4 weeks. That still gave him "daily exposure" because he was in an environment like you where the particulates were everywhere around him, but they were only 'in the air' when he changed into/out of his coveralls or swept or dusted off his bench/tool boxes. You've probably had as much exposure with your daily close work over 2.5 years (not to mention the 1.5). We were "exposed to Gary's work" by virtue of the common ventilation system...

I have three crucial recommendations (at least, as a former painter, they'd be crucial to me)-

1) BEFORE you go see an Occupational Respiratory Specialist, if you have life insurance, increase it; if you don't have it, get it. Damn the "expense". If you believe in the concept of insuring yourself to financially protect the surviving loved ones in your life, buy as much as you can afford. I dunno your situation (young, old, wealthy family ties, married, etc; or future plans) but if you're a believer, get you some, ideally, in the 7 figures. A million dollars ain't worth what it was, and in twenty years, it'll probably be worth less than 2/3 of that.

If it's "too expensive" buy convertible decreasing term life--that'd be a form of "term life insurance"- the cheapest available, that includes clauses that say that you can convert the term life to permanent life insurance (at whatever level the insurance is worth when you convert it), AND MOST importantly, includes a clause that declares that the company cannot cancel your policy for any reason.

If you're going to buy life insurance at any time in your life, you MUST do it now, while you can declare that to your knowledge (and more importantly, your medical records will testify) you have no known ailments.

ONCE YOU CONSULT A RESPIRATORY SPECIALIST and they do a lung biopsy (for asbestos [in automotive brakes] and fiberglass et. al.), or any other tests show that you've been exposed to airborne particulates, you will either be uninsurable, or the insurance rates will be *MUCH* higher because your medical records will be established.

2) AFTER you have a valid issued-insurance policy in your hands, go see a specialist and find out what damage has been done. When I was painting, I was lucky; I found a very well-regarded specialist at UCSF Med Center who would take me on just on my own referral. I didn't, and thankfully don't, have any respiratory nor blood problems (with lead and other chemical exposures) because I took care of my health. We made it a practice to draw my blood and do the lung work every six months. I paid dearly for it because it wasn't covered by insurance but at least the medical costs were tax deductible. It was just part of the cost of "tools" for my trade.

3) And that's my last recommendation--get tested at least once a year from the time you quit that kind of work; every six months if you stay. Someday, this is very likely gonna bite you in the ass, and the sooner affecting symptoms are found, the sooner treatments can start. Make the best of what you woke up to; while it may be a "death sentence" it certainly isn't immediate, and there's things can/should be done.

 

[Hobo Hilton]

It surprises me how many people suggest running straight to a government agency to solve the problem. Government is not the answer. It should only be the last resort if all else fails.

I recommend starting with some simple precautions like a n95 mask and a battery powered leaf blower to dust yourself off at the end of shift. If you genuinely think your work environment is hazardous to your health, don’t go back to work and knowingly exposure yourself.

Give your safety manager one more try before escalating to a high level admin, VP, Pres, CEO, etc and let him know you are genuinely concerned about the issue. Offer to be part of the solution. Don’t just go and cry to an alphabet gov agency. Don’t give government any more power than need be.

Employers are struggling to find good employees these days. Show some initiative and rational thought to your employer. They might notice your reasonable approach to the situation and offer advancement in your career.

Well, there are many ways to look at this situation... Sounds like the OP is working for a large corporation. Large corporations have Law Firms on retainer. An individual has no legal adviser on retainer. The moment the OP complains, a "case" will be fabricated against him. Employer's are struggling to find people who will work for less and not make waves. The safety man is "just taking orders" and he could be replaced at the drop of a hat. That company has a file full of applications for a safety manager, QC, etc.... These are the reasons so many American's have dropped out of the work force... To sum it up they are saying "This job is just not worth it".

 

[wh20crazy]

I don't deal with this stuff at work. Get a respirator. The respirator that I bought retails for $88. Tyvek suits are $5. You can blow them off and or wash them. Believe it or not, you will grow old. Do so without knowingly compromising your health.

 

[Nepa1990]

I guess this topic- the self-inflicted dismissal for concern of one's health, enrages me, because either while sleeping or immediately upon waking, I had another couple thoughts...

Nepa1990, you make a "distinction" that you've been with the company for 4 years, but working specifically with fiberglass for 2.5; there's no good news here except to say that it wasn't 5 years (yet). If you worked all that time on an open floor, as you stated before, the air conditioning or ventilation system would have dispersed the fiberglass everywhere. If you haven't quit, you can go see it for yourself with an attentive eye. Look at any flat surface that hasn't been dusted for proof. If the cabinet-building has been confined to a chamber or solitary room, it's worse news for the workers involved.

In my previous post I wrote about Gary, the Corvette bodyman- I wanna correct an impression I might have given unintentionally- he alone in that shop, worked twenty years with Vettes, but not daily. He probably had to fix one Corvette every 3-4 weeks. That still gave him "daily exposure" because he was in an environment like you where the particulates were everywhere around him, but they were only 'in the air' when he changed into/out of his coveralls or swept or dusted off his bench/tool boxes. You've probably had as much exposure with your daily close work over 2.5 years (not to mention the 1.5). We were "exposed to Gary's work" by virtue of the common ventilation system...

I have three crucial recommendations (at least, as a former painter, they'd be crucial to me)-

1) BEFORE you go see an Occupational Respiratory Specialist, if you have life insurance, increase it; if you don't have it, get it. Damn the "expense". If you believe in the concept of insuring yourself to financially protect the surviving loved ones in your life, buy as much as you can afford. I dunno your situation (young, old, wealthy family ties, married, etc; or future plans) but if you're a believer, get you some, ideally, in the 7 figures. A million dollars ain't worth what it was, and in twenty years, it'll probably be worth less than 2/3 of that.

If it's "too expensive" buy convertible decreasing term life--that'd be a form of "term life insurance"- the cheapest available, that includes clauses that say that you can convert the term life to permanent life insurance (at whatever level the insurance is worth when you convert it), AND MOST importantly, includes a clause that declares that the company cannot cancel your policy for any reason.

If you're going to buy life insurance at any time in your life, you MUST do it now, while you can declare that to your knowledge (and more importantly, your medical records will testify) you have no known ailments.

ONCE YOU CONSULT A RESPIRATORY SPECIALIST and they do a lung biopsy (for asbestos [in automotive brakes] and fiberglass et. al.), or any other tests show that you've been exposed to airborne particulates, you will either be uninsurable, or the insurance rates will be *MUCH* higher because your medical records will be established.

2) AFTER you have a valid issued-insurance policy in your hands, go see a specialist and find out what damage has been done. When I was painting, I was lucky; I found a very well-regarded specialist at UCSF Med Center who would take me on just on my own referral. I didn't, and thankfully don't, have any respiratory nor blood problems (with lead and other chemical exposures) because I took care of my health. We made it a practice to draw my blood and do the lung work every six months. I paid dearly for it because it wasn't covered by insurance but at least the medical costs were tax deductible. It was just part of the cost of "tools" for my trade.

3) And that's my last recommendation--get tested at least once a year from the time you quit that kind of work; every six months if you stay. Someday, this is very likely gonna bite you in the ass, and the sooner affecting symptoms are found, the sooner treatments can start. Make the best of what you woke up to; while it may be a "death sentence" it certainly isn't immediate, and there's things can/should be done.

You are scaring the shit out of me. I am only 31 years old. I hope to God I am alright…..

 

[Mike Casselton]

No, NO and FUCK NO !!! You need to clear your head. Nothing was "your fault". Stop being a victim.

There are regulations and laws in this country that protect you from hazardous environments. It is NOT your responsibility to go begging to a company that doesn't give a shit about you or anyone else for the proper safety gear. It is THEIR RESPONSIBILITY to have safety protocols, processes and procedures in place, IN ADVANCE of you beginning this type of work for the first time.

Actually, if the company was on the up and up and gave two shits about you, you would have never been allowed to begin the job without comprehensive safety training/instruction, the regular issuance/replacement of proper, up to date safety gear and regular medical testing.

^^^^^^
This right here.
Nothing less. Ever.

 

[Mike Casselton]

if they provide them for "voluntary use", they simply need to give you the Appendix D to the OSHA respiratory protection standard, and then you don't need fit tested.

Respiratory protection with fiberglass handling/use is not employee optional.

 

[pk5333]

Respiratory protection with fiberglass handling/use is not employee optional.

well it's not required either

 

[Mwalex]

well it's not required either

Hmmm,....not sure that is 100% correct. There is an associated comment on a SDS - respirator not required unless a nuisance dust is formed.

Additional information: https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/npg/npgd0288.html

What people need to understand is that you must take responsibility for your health and safety at work. Inhaling any particulate material is bad for the lungs.

Also, not being required is not an excuse/reason for not wearing a respirator working with dusts.

 

[Hobo Hilton]

well it's not required either

LOL.... Long ago it was not required when working with asbestos, DDT, mercury vapors, etc

Why You Should Ditch Fiberglass Insulation

Fiberglass is a widely used insulation material, but does come with some significant hazards. Find out why you should consider some alternative materials.

blog.polytechinc.com

 

[c1steve]

I have permanent lung damage from fiberglass exposure, showed up on x-ray. At first they thought it might be TB, but pretty sure it came from grinding fiberglass with minimal equipment, at a summer job when I was 19.

I would document everything, and call OSHA.

The shop should install a air filter system sucking everything down to a ground level vent, which leads to the collection bag. The bag and fan are located outside of the building.

 

[Twins82]

Dont worry the government has assured me that the new fibrous materials are all better and safer than the old one's they replaced.

 

[TxWelder35]

I have permanent lung damage from fiberglass exposure, showed up on x-ray. At first they thought it might be TB, but pretty sure it came from grinding fiberglass with minimal equipment, at a summer job when I was 19.

I would document everything, and call OSHA.

The shop should install a air filter system sucking everything down to a ground level vent, which leads to the collection bag. The bag and fan are located outside of the building.

How long were you exposed?

I’ve got to reinsulate my attic here soon and I’ve been debating having all the old shit from the 50s sucked out and non fiberglass insulation put in.

I need to be better about wearing a respirator when using grinding/cut off wheels but it can be such a hassle. Those discs are held together with fiberglass strands

 

[Ravenworks]

How long were you exposed?

I’ve got to reinsulate my attic here soon and I’ve been debating having all the old shit from the 50s sucked out and non fiberglass insulation put in.

I need to be better about wearing a respirator when using grinding/cut off wheels but it can be such a hassle. Those discs are held together with fiberglass strands

I'd be more concerned about the natural and artificial aggregate used in cut off and grinding wheels than the fiberglass or bonding agents

 

[TxWelder35]

I'd be more concerned about the natural and artificial aggregate used in cut off and grinding wheels than the fiberglass or bonding agents

Yea I’m sure it’s all bad. Steel dust and welding fumes I doubt are very good either.

 

[1moaoff]

I know man, but part of it was my fault for being stupid not knowing better from the get-go. That doesn’t cover for the companies complacency, but I was ignorant for a good while.

True but last to react gets it in the fanny... once you bring it up you should be protected if your a good employee.

 

[GrumpyOleFart]

See a doctor.
Get a health check, xray, lung test.
Get the fuck out of that industry.
It's not the stuff you can see that fucks you.
Look after you, because evidently your company doesn't give a shit about you.

 

[Nepa1990]

I filed an OSHA complaint last night. I know the company received it as I overheard employees talking about it at the time clock. Most were suspecting an employee who was recently let go as the culprit. That’s ok - look over there everyone.

I also scheduled an appointment with a pulmonary specialist to get checked out after work today.

I have five days off (vacation) starting this Thursday. I am going to do everything in my power to land a gig during those five days, and I’m telling this employer to get fucked as I will not be returning.

 

[unrepentant]

If you ever plan to get life insurance, do it first before meeting any pulmonary doctors/facilities.

Testing isn't a time "critical" requirement. Whatever damage you've suffered is done. It'll show up a year from now just the same. Don't panic; think this through. Plan ahead for your long-term future, because you still have one, just maybe not as "old age 75-90yr geezer" as you might have planned. If you even consider that someday you might want to have had life insurance, do it first.

Let the shock wear off, and think your strategy through.

OSHA is toothless. The dealer I worked at for 13 years was the largest dealer in northern California, and when OSHA mandated a change in the paint shop environment, my dealership issued a notice to all employees that OSHA required changes but the dealer was continually cited for non-compliance and routinely paid the fine because it was cheaper than finding/upgrading to modern facilities. That's what you're facing, but in this day and age, it's even more hardball.

Gotta go. I'm late.

 

[Nepa1990]

If you ever plan to get life insurance, do it first before meeting any pulmonary doctors/facilities.

Testing isn't a time "critical" requirement. Whatever damage you've suffered is done. It'll show up a year from now just the same. Don't panic; think this through. Plan ahead for your long-term future, because you still have one, just maybe not as "old age 75-90yr geezer" as you might have planned. If you even consider that someday you might want to have had life insurance, do it first.

Let the shock wear off, and think your strategy through.

Gotta go. I'm late.

Is my situation really as serious as you are making it sound? I’m going to die young from this? My head is spinning and I’m genuinely curious.

 

[oneshot86]

I can't believe the SHIT I'm reading here... Pardon me if I don't mince words and sugar-coat my observations.

Nepa1990, HOW THE FUCK can you be so stupid in today's (industrial) work environment?? No offense, but what I'm reading here is the typical "AVERAGE-intelligence-quotient" American viewpoint - a touted and popular 'opinion' without any reference whatsoever to plain facts.

1) NOBODY gives a fuck how you take care of your health. Not your co-workers, (tough guys all, who don't wanna be bothered with the inconvenience of a bullshit mask like an N95), not your safety officer (who, like Human Resources Dept workers, wanna do as little as possible to fulfill their obligations, avoid office conflicts, and just cash their weekly check) and certainly not the Board of Directors/Owner-s/President-CEO-CFO, et. al., with their eye on profits.

SURE, they "bear responsibility", but only legally (and "morally", if all ya'll insist). In the end, if they don't, YOU DO BEAR RESPONSIBILITY FOR YOURSELF, because even if you (or your heirs) win a monstrous lawsuit for negligent or criminal business practices, the money will not repair your health.

You might wanna follow some of the advice I've read in this thread--go ahead and get a lawyer. I mean, why not? You'll need the money in a couple decades to cover your medical costs. AND THERE WILL DEFINITELY BE MEDICAL TROUBLES AHEAD FOR YOU after 4 years of thoughtless obliviousness.

(I am a former professional auto painter; I worked in a shop where no one else but me wore a "mask" [I'll get to the mask later]). I was regarded as the shop's lone "candy-ass" for wearing a mask and a "pussy" for paying for it myself (every week; they ain't "cheap"). The Corvette body man died at 58 from pnuemonoconiosis -basically, lung disease. If you don't know, all Corvettes are made of fiberglass (or some "plastic/fiber/carbon" substance that is converted to particulate irritants when cut, sanded, or pulverized with a grinder/orbital sander, etc., and in order to repair damaged panels, fiberglass has to be prepped- sanded or ground (into dust) with an abrasive. In essence it's "lighter than air"--which is why you can see it "floating". Gary, the Corvette tech, never ever wore a mask, but in your favor, he worked on Vettes for 20 years; in essence, it caught up with him in 2 decades. (He went out on a lung-related disability when he was 51 years old.)

As to the shop's responsibility, it was too late for him and he knew it. Rather than spend his time litigating, he made the best of the rest of his life traveling and recreating with his family.

2) This commonly-touted advice, "wear an N95 mask". BULLSHIT. This ain't sawdust or lint we're talking about. Fiberglass is silica - miniscule glass PARTICLES (like the windows in your house, they're just as sharp in their "broken" state) - in your case, so fine they'll float in a wind current. Glass particulates in the lungs attach and attack the tissue. There's no way a cheap "$2" N95 will fit correctly nor completely filter fiberglass floaters. If you're stupid enough to go back to work there, or anywhere where these kinds of particulates permeate the breathing air, at least get yourself a proper "mask"- a TC-23C respirator and a box of filters. Two filters last 40 hours. RTFM and learn how to adjust it so's it sits on your face correctly and protects you. Learn how to test the seal between the mask and your face.

As someone has already recommended, shave off all facial hair. Buy Tyvex coveralls and dispose of them weekly, or at the least get cloth coveralls that you wash weekly (and run the washer empty on a rinse cycle after you've removed your coveralls to insure that the washer is "clean"). At least at the shop I worked at coveralls were provided and washed by an industrial laundry company that provided the coveralls. (this was in the 1980's). For the rest, even with Cal-OSHA's reputation and strength in the San Francisco Bay Area, the dealership I worked at got away with refusing to provide respiratory and optical protection, OSHA visits and all.

3) My best advice is, quit your job immediately. It's obvious NO ONE there gives a rat's ass about worker health. Ya know those Hot Rod TV shows- the ones where the "pickers" go and buy some barn find and do the body/paint work, etc., and turn a big profit?- I ain't surprised in the least to see the "talented" workers grind and sand primer, paint, or bondo without a mask. And paint with those bullshit N95 masks, too. Some of the better shows show the painters using a TC-23C respirator, but that "mask" isn't good enough for today's hVOC/HVLP paints, so those guys'll be hurting in 25 years too.

4) Find a Occupational Respiratory Specialist and get yourself THOROUGHLY tested. It's too late for you to be clean, but you need a baseline and all the advice you can get on cleaning up your environment and situation.

Damn the costs. ALL these things matter more than the "instant" poverty of being out of work. Your health is the sum total of your future. All the rest is just money. I've said my peace to "anyone" who's listening and willing to hear.

Great post.
Safety first, really.
Especially the most forgotten safety area, your lungs. Read the safety labels on chemicals and you are a retard of retards for not using good protective gear if you know better.

 

[Ravenworks]

Is my situation really as serious as you are making it sound? I’m going to die young from this? My head is spinning and I’m genuinely curious.

Yes this is serious
You shouldn't quit your employer without a notice too.

 

[seanh]

Is my situation really as serious as you are making it sound? I’m going to die young from this? My head is spinning and I’m genuinely curious.

Here's the way the laws gonna look at it, if you're genuinely concerned you'll either wear the necessary protective gear or quit. If you stay there and do nothing, you can't be too concerned.

Is this stuff gonna take years off your life?? Yes, if you continue to stay there and not wear the necessary protective gear.

If you were to say quit tomorrow and go find something else that is less hazardous will you ever notice any debilitating issues… probably not

 

[c1steve]

How long were you exposed?

I’ve got to reinsulate my attic here soon and I’ve been debating having all the old shit from the 50s sucked out and non fiberglass insulation put in.

I need to be better about wearing a respirator when using grinding/cut off wheels but it can be such a hassle. Those discs are held together with fiberglass strands

I ground fiberglass off of fiberglass castings 8 hours a day, for about 5 weeks, then quit. Everyday went home with fiberglass shards stuck in my skin. Just a minimal one strap dust mask is all they gave me. I quit when they hired a new guy, and put him one place ahead of me.

 

[...]

Is my situation really as serious as you are making it sound? I’m going to die young from this? My head is spinning and I’m genuinely curious.

is the situation serious?.....fuck yes its serious.

are you going to die young?.....none of us are mind readers, fuck you could get hit by a bus tomorrow...

have you damaged your lungs?....more than likely to some extent.....


the human body is weird....people live decades with aggressive cancer....other people die from a stubbed toe.....so i wouldnt get all worked up as to when you are going to die just yet.

consult with a doctor, and see what they say......but @unrepentant wasnt giving you bad advice.....

 

[Nepa1990]

Yes this is serious
You shouldn't quit your employer without a notice too.

I probably shouldn’t quit my employer without notice…… but an employer who puts corporate profits over the basic safety of the employees who make those profits possible?

Fuck yes, I’m going to quit my employer without notice as hard as possible. I’m praying it happens within this next week.

 

[Average guy]

Yea I’m sure it’s all bad. Steel dust and welding fumes I doubt are very good either.

After welding for about 10 years for small operators when I was younger, I hired on with a large company that required a full physical and PFT. Long story short at 37 my lungs were aged at 49 years old. New company provides us with PAPR/supplied air welding hoods. It took awhile to get used to but I wear it as much as I can now. Amazing how much better I feel at the end of the day. I wish I would have had one years before, especially for indoor/ confined areas.

 

[seanh]

Give notice before you quit? Are they gonna give someone 2 weeks notice before they fire them?

 

[waveslayer]

I don’t want to stir up a pot of shit unless necessary. We have inquired to our safety guy regarding masks, and he has stated they cannot provide them because we have not undergone fit-testing (his words, not mine).

And that’s where the conversation ended.

OSHA law.
That's why I laugh at all the mask mandates, unless it has been properly fit tested, signed by a physician, a mask is useless! Fit testing to verify proper seal.

But they should provide one it sounds like

 

[Familydude]

A lot of information on here. Some of it good. I’d say before you decide your life is essentially over at 31, get a professional medical opinion after a complete work up. This is nothing to sneeze at, but at the same time, several opinions can be like surfing the net to diagnose that weird mole you found. We all know how that goes.

Again, some great advice, but as far as the possible effects on your health, go see a doctor. Just my 2 cents.

 

[Pugster]

1) Echoing the same sentiment from the previous posts, protect your health and check in with a doctor.

2) The OP mentioned there are other employees that performed the same job/task. How are they doing physically? How long have they worked that line and are they having lung related issues (Asthma, bronchitis, and etc)?

 

[Nepa1990]

1) Echoing the same sentiment from the previous posts, protect your health and check in with a doctor.

2) The OP mentioned there are other employees that performed the same job/task. How are they doing physically? How long have they worked that line and are they having lung related issues (Asthma, bronchitis, and etc)?

No health problems from them as far as I know, no.

 

[308pirate]

It surprises me how many people suggest running straight to a government agency to solve the problem. Government is not the answer. It should only be the last resort if all else fails.

I recommend starting with some simple precautions like a n95 mask and a battery powered leaf blower to dust yourself off at the end of shift. If you genuinely think your work environment is hazardous to your health, don’t go back to work and knowingly exposure yourself.

Give your safety manager one more try before escalating to a high level admin, VP, Pres, CEO, etc and let him know you are genuinely concerned about the issue. Offer to be part of the solution. Don’t just go and cry to an alphabet gov agency. Don’t give government any more power than need be.

Fuck that place. They give zero fucks and will brand this guy a troublemaker and fuck him over.

I'm not one to involve the man in aspect of my life, but if my employer treated worker safety like THAT one, I would fuck them over at the drop of a hat and gladly use government to do it.

Employers are struggling to find good employees these days. Show some initiative and rational thought to your employer. They might notice your reasonable approach to the situation and offer advancement in your career.

That shit cuts both ways. Businesses that disregard worker safety can fucking crumble for all I care.

 

[308pirate]

I filed an OSHA complaint last night. I know the company received it as I overheard employees talking about it at the time clock. Most were suspecting an employee who was recently let go as the culprit. That’s ok - look over there everyone.

I also scheduled an appointment with a pulmonary specialist to get checked out after work today.

I have five days off (vacation) starting this Thursday. I am going to do everything in my power to land a gig during those five days, and I’m telling this employer to get fucked as I will not be returning.

LISTEN to @unrepentant

And then do what he says IN THE ORDER that he lays out.

 

[308pirate]

You shouldn't quit your employer without a notice too.

True, but that notice could be as short as effective immediately.

I used to think that was something one never did but I've changed my mind. How I leave is a by-product of how I was treated.

 

[greg1147]

Fiberglass, silica dust asbestos, and any other airborne dust will end up in your lungs if you don't protect yourself. As noted before it's the employer and YOU to do it. Forty plus years in the trades, I am fortunate never had any ill effects wish I could say that for friends in wheel chairs on oxygen.

 

[unrepentant]

Is my situation really as serious as you are making it sound? I’m going to die young from this? My head is spinning and I’m genuinely curious.

"Is it serious?" My first reaction is, "Jesus H Christ. You're Goddamn right it is", but I don't know your work environment, etc.--did you even wear a Covid-type mask, or a neckerchief, were you cutting/handling fiberglass constantly for 40hr/2.5/"4" years, were there fans blowing ('glass) at you, on and on. There's no way to tell how "serious" this is--how much your exposure has affected you can only be determined by a pulmonary function test and other lung tests. After you take them, a qualified doctor/specialist will read your results and determine exactly what you've "suffered".

(This IS the internet. Everything I've written and recommended could be pure bullshit [in your case alone] through some miraculous job site conditions that work in your health's favor. But from personal experience observing co-workers' deteriorating health as they got to their late 40s and early 50s in an auto body shop, I doubt it. They were all affected (and me, probably, too, despite my clean tests); but I quit the industry at age 37, on the spot at 10:47am on the day OSHA warned my dealership, once I found out the owner's stance on our health. Unlike you, I didn't give a damn what my co-workers "thought". A couple assholes (truly; I always regarded them as 'the enemy') were even pissed off with jealousy [THAT, I enjoyed; it was the only time they spoke I enjoyed hearing what they had to say]--"you can't quit; what are you gonna do for money??" like they gave a shit. I stayed poor for 3 years recovering economically while changing careers--so poor, my wife spent her childhood coin collection during our lean years. I mention this because you might ponder a similar career move. It's gonna take some serious personal reflection.)

I think one thing's absolutely sure. Your lungs don't resemble a 31-year old office worker's lungs, and if you smoke, quit. Science has proven the smoking habit absolutely accelerates lung disease in asbestos and fiberglass -related afflictions. Hell, I could be wrong. It could be that your exposure was minimal because your description of your actual fiberglass handling is inaccurate enough that you're more like a weekend-homeowner-Xtimes/year-project-worker and have only minimal exposure--but by your description, your clothes and your car don't say that.

There's a chance you got less exposure than a "normal" unprotected fiberglass worker because of certain idiosyncrasies in your work environment, but "less" ain't 'none'. So much for all the sugar-coating...

You're worse off than if you had been smoking for "2.5/4" years that's for sure--some people by their longevity have proven their lungs can take "smoking"--George Burns, the comedian, instantly comes to mind and there are other unnamed anecdotal pack-a-day smokers who've made the news living to their 90s. On the other hand, David Janssen died at 48 (and looked 58) because he, too, used his lungs for chimneys. But in these cases, a chemical vulnerability causes the troubles- with fiberglass, it's all "synthetic abrasive degeneration"; certain lucky peoples' bodies may cope with tar and nicotine, but 'glass ain't a chemical. I digress...

Has/will this affect your life? Most probably. "I'm going to die young from this?" My answer is, if the gods who've determined the date of your passing have a "natural death" intended for you, then you've shortened their plans much like the average smoker has-- you've probably cut years off your life--how many, who can say. Most likely, with "only" 4 years exposure, you've got at least 25-40 years left if there are no other contributing factors (like a genetic predisposition for lung-related weaknesses, or smoking) and oncology technology is constantly improving. A LOT can happen between today and the "end of your life" so long as you don't get hit by a truck.

1) I stand by my best efforts to give you advice-- if you're a believer, apply for as much life insurance as possible and lock your insurance contract BEFORE YOU GET ANY MEDICAL EVALUATION. At 31 years, insurance companies drool over theoretical long-term potential subscribers as yourself so the rates are VERY cheap since you're *very* young by life insurance actuary tables. If you panic and get your (irregular) medical results recorded before applying for the insurance you'll either disqualify yourself or cause the rates to go up by *BIG* TENS of thousands of dollars over your next 25 years and beyond. Think "double or triple the rates" if you qualify as a theoretical estimated "47-year old subject".

You'd be a complete fuck-up to ignore advice #1 because you panicked first (even after reading all everyone's posted in this thread) and disqualify yourself from life insurance (and have a family [later] to support).

2) If for some reason you don't get out of the industry, immediately get a TC-23C respirator and a box of filters. Consider the manufacturer's standard-- a box of filters lasts 40 hours. Some hard-sell companies will claim the filters last until breathing through them is "labored". You've got one set of lungs; what you do to protect them is your business. In either example, the manufacturers don't claim that man-made synthetic filters are permanently effective. Think about that; in a roundabout way, it implies that your lungs don't have the resistance of a 40-hour filter against airborne particulates .

3) Get the medical tests as I described and establish your own pulmonary baselines AFTER the insurance play. DON'T PANIC. WHAT'S DONE IS DONE. Now, in this "immediacy", knowing as a fact how much your body has suffered isn't as important as planning your strategy to change things (whatever course you decide). Medically, you won't be affected for some time to come; don't fuck up your career/lifestyle/future by acting hastily. Fuck OSHA and any ideas you may have about crusading against your employer. If you have time for that after you've "made yourself whole", then fine, crusade--but take care of your life first.

4) As I said before, monitor your medical condition annually, or every 6 months if you stay "in the industry". Why every six months? Because constant monitoring leads to early help, and secondly, "3" years is a LOONG time technologically, and tests become more thorough and investigative as the technology advances. The "end" is not near; at least, not because of fiberglass. It may come sooner and be more debilitating than good healthy pink lungs would dictate, but we don't even know that until your test results are interpreted.

Step back; breathe. Take some time to think everything out. There's PLENTY of time to make the right moves later. Immediately change your work conditions, but all else can wait until you're not thinking "in shock".

 

[Holliday]

I have permanent lung damage from fiberglass exposure, showed up on x-ray. At first they thought it might be TB, but pretty sure it came from grinding fiberglass with minimal equipment, at a summer job when I was 19.

I would document everything, and call OSHA.

The shop should install a air filter system sucking everything down to a ground level vent, which leads to the collection bag. The bag and fan are located outside of the building.

I repaired fiberglass surfboards in in a surfboard factory in my late 20s. We were hippy surfer dudes, so we did worry too much……