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Re: Epoxy Fumes
By:Michael Freeman
Date: 3/7/2000, 5:30 pm
In Response To: Epoxy Fumes (Will Stark)

> Does anyone know if epoxy fumes rise or fall? That is, are they lighter or
> heavier than air?

> I am just about to begin building in a friends basement and I need to know
> how to handle the fumes.

> Thanks, Will

Will,

You don't mention the epoxy system you are using, but West System vapors are HEAVIER than air. If you are building in a basement you should ventilate the space with a fan in a window to draw any fumes from the workspace and exhaust them to the outdoors. If you are working in a confined space with poor ventilation you should also wear a respirator equipped with organic vapor cartridges.

Your epoxy supplier can provide you with a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for the epoxy system you plan to use. Ask for it and read it carefully so that you fully understand the risks of working with epoxy and the protective measures you can take to reduce/eliminate those risks.

Epoxy is quite benign and safe to work with compared to other chemicals, but some people can become severely sensitized to it if it is handled poorly. West System has MSDS's for their products online, you can link to them below.

Don't mean to preach, but work safely and enjoy building!

Michael, Canoe lurker

Messages In This Thread

Epoxy Fumes
Will Stark -- 3/6/2000, 9:37 pm
Dust "Fumes"
Ed Valley -- 3/8/2000, 5:41 pm
Re: Epoxy Fumes
Michael Freeman -- 3/7/2000, 5:30 pm
Re: Epoxy Fumes
dave -- 3/7/2000, 9:03 am
Re: Epoxy Fumes
Larry Thompson -- 3/6/2000, 11:29 pm
Re: Are Epoxy Fumes Combustible?
Will Stark -- 3/6/2000, 11:47 pm
Combustible fumes? Maybe...
Ed Valley -- 3/8/2000, 5:38 pm
Re: I don't think so
Shawn Baker -- 3/7/2000, 10:59 am
Re:not an expert
lee -- 3/6/2000, 10:17 pm