Epoxy resin is standard in everything from construction to art projects to our stunning and unique iPhone cases. However, working with resin requires several safety precautions, as it is toxic before it cures. Before you start your next resin art project, learning how to minimize mishaps is a good idea.
As resin experts, we’re here to guide you through the potential risks. Don’t worry — with the right gear and proper ventilation. You can enjoy safely completing your resin projects. And once they’re fully cured, your resin objects, just like our wood-and-resin phone cases, are entirely safe to use. Let’s dive in.
What Is Resin?
Resin is a thick, sticky synthetic substance. When mixed with a hardener, it undergoes a chemical reaction called curing that turns it into a solid. There are many types of resin. One of the most popular types, epoxy resin, contains chemicals like bisphenol A (BPA) and epichlorohydrin, which drive its curing transformation.
While the curing process makes resin useful, it also introduces potential health risks, like exposure to harmful fumes and skin irritation, when the substance releases volatile organic compounds (VOCs). To minimize health hazards, work in a well-ventilated area and use protective gear like gloves and masks.
Is Resin Toxic?
Resin is toxic during the mixing and curing stages. If you don’t handle it correctly, there can be negative consequences. The VOC resin contains formaldehyde, toluene, and benzene, which can be harmful if you inhale or ingest them or if they come into contact with your skin. If exposed in large quantities without proper precautions, these compounds can cause respiratory irritation, dizziness, or long-term health issues.
Health Risks of Resin Exposure
Working with resin, particularly in its uncured state, can lead to health issues if you don’t take the proper precautions:
- Short-term exposure: Resin fumes can irritate your eyes, nose, and throat. Symptoms may include headaches, dizziness, or nausea. Skin contact with uncured resin may cause irritation or rashes, especially if you have sensitive skin.
- Long-term exposure: Repeated exposure to uncured resin can lead to chronic respiratory problems and skin allergies. Scientists have linked BPA, which is present in epoxy resin, to long-term health risks like hormonal disruption and potential carcinogenic effects. To avoid these risks, you must use proper safety measures, like personal protective equipment (PPE) and good ventilation when mixing and curing resin.
Safe Practices for Handling Resin
By understanding the potential risks and following safety procedures, you can ensure a safe and smooth experience with every resin art project you undertake. Below are some essential precautions to take.
Always Buy ASTM-D Certified Resin
When working with resin, it’s essential always to read the labels to ensure the product meets safety standards, like ASTM-D certification. This certification confirms that the resin is safe for art and craft projects and has lower chemical content and toxicity than industrial-grade resins. Always choose resins labeled non-toxic and made for crafting to minimize your health risks.
Use Proper Ventilation
Good ventilation is crucial when working with resin, especially during the mixing and curing phases. Resin emits harmful VOCs, which can lead to respiratory issues if you inhale them in large quantities. Always work in a well-ventilated area, preferably with open windows or an exhaust system, to reduce exposure. Additionally, take regular breaks away from the workspace to allow your respiratory system to recover and minimize your risks.
Work in a Clean Space
Create a designated space for your resin projects, preferably in a well-ventilated, dust-free area. Keep your workspace clean and free of food or drinks to avoid contamination. Using protective coverings like plastic sheets will prevent resin from sticking to surfaces, making it more difficult for your skin to come into contact with the resin and easier to clean up afterward.
Wear PPE
Always wear the proper protective gear when handling resin to reduce your risk of skin contact, ingestion, eye irritation, and inhalation of fumes.
- Gloves: Wear Nitrile gloves because latex gloves can degrade when they come into contact with resin chemicals.
- Safety glasses: Protect your eyes from splashes and fumes.
- Respirator: Wear a mask with organic vapor cartridges to protect your lungs from VOCs during mixing and curing.
- Protective clothing: Wear long sleeves and an apron to prevent skin contact with resin spills.
Avoid Heat Hazards
Extra caution is necessary if your resin project uses LED lights or heat tools, like blow torches or soldering irons. Uncured resin can be particularly dangerous when exposed to high temperatures. Heat causes the resin to release harmful fumes or even ignite when it comes into contact with flammable materials. Keep all combustible items far from your workspace, and never leave the tools or project unattended when using heat. If you use a heat gun to eliminate bubbles, ensure you use a low temperature.
Handle the Cured Resin with Care
Once the resin has fully cured — typically after an epoxy curing time of 24 to 72 hours — it is generally considered safe and non-toxic. However, if you plan to sand or cut the cured resin, be advised that this can release fine dust particles, which can cause respiratory irritation if inhaled. Always wear a mask if you plan to do either, and work in a well-ventilated area to minimize your exposure to this dust.
Dispose of Resin Responsibly
Once your project is complete, clean all tools and surfaces immediately before the resin hardens. Once fully cured, the resin can be challenging to remove, so acting quickly is essential. When disposing of your resin waste, be sure to follow local regulations. You can typically throw away cured resin with regular trash. Still, uncured or partially cured resin is hazardous waste, and you must dispose of it accordingly.
Store Your Resin Securely
Keep resins, hardeners, and other chemicals in tightly sealed containers to prevent fumes from leaking. Also, keep them away from moisture or heat sources, as these can affect the integrity of the resin. It’s best to store these materials out of reach of children and pets, ideally in a locked cabinet or container. This prevents accidental exposure and keeps the resin in good condition for future use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is resin harmful to your health?
Yes, resin can harm your health if you don’t handle it properly. During curing, it releases volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can cause respiratory, skin, and eye irritation.
Is resin toxic when it’s dry?
No, once resin is fully cured, it is generally non-toxic, though you should still take precautions when sanding or cutting it.
Is resin safe to use at home?
Yes, resin is safe to use at home if you follow proper safety measures, such as wearing PPE and ensuring adequate ventilation.
Is resin poisonous to touch?
Uncured resin can be irritating and potentially harmful to touch. Still, once it has cured, it is generally safe to handle.
Can resin cause allergic reactions?
Yes, prolonged skin exposure to resin can lead to allergic reactions, especially if safety precautions are not followed. To avoid this, always wear gloves and avoid direct contact with uncured resin.