LCS Laboratory Inc., offers unique testing of residual Diisocyanates adsorbed on worker’s clothes. This procedure was developed in response to second-hand exposure of isocyanates due to a previously sensitized worker. After being sensitized by isocyanates the person developed a severe reaction to chemical odors (vapors) transported by other workers’ clothes.
For some workers, exposure to isocyanates can sensitize the skin or respiratory system. This response can be caused by a single acute exposure or repeated exposure at low concentrations. Once someone has become sensitized, the person may develop asthmatic reactions to extremely low concentrations of isocyanates, even concentrations below the Ontario Occupational Exposure Limit of 5 ppb (2017). Sometimes the asthma-like reaction occurs immediately after exposure. More commonly, sensitized individuals experience symptoms several hours after exposure.
If you believe that you, your colleague, or family member’s clothing carries isocyanates, please contact LCS laboratory. Our Laboratory measures the concentration of free isocyanates in head space around the contaminated clothing with a sensitivity of 0.5 ppb. This extreme sensitivity is sufficient for detection of trace amounts of isocyanates in the air around the contaminated clothes.
The test is time sensitive because free isocyanates slowly dissipate, and in 2-3 days after exposure, their concentration would become undetectable. The sample of clothing must be shipped overnight in airtight bags. The laboratory must be contacted prior the shipping to be ready accept and preserve the samples.
