mike r;18841 said:
I went head and cleared the few small parts i had and you guys were right it went away. even though it had just been 24 hrs since i shot the base I went ahead and cleared everything anyhow. I had just got done with my first coat. and man did i get sick to my stomach. so much so that I couldn't start the second coat or even pull the tape off the first. as the evening went on im getting sicker and sicker puked about 10 times till there is nothing left. felt a few times like i was going to pass out. its been a long time since i have been this sick if ever. I writing this now just to take my mind off it. do you think the isocyanates had something to do with this. I had a brand new mask on, both of my garge doors open. and i was probably only in it for about 10mins. Iv heard confilting storys about the 3m mask that they will filter the isocyanate as long as it is new, and others say it wont. what will be the best way to remove the tape tomorrow. if i make it that is. thanks again
Did you use cartridges that are NIOSH TC-23/84A rated? That is the cartridge rated for isocynates. It is approved for use but there is a time table to determine its life. In the conditions you describe I would feel safe using a pair of cartridges for 2 hrs exposure. then toss then and put on new ones.
Unless you have been sensitized to isocyanates I don't think you had a reaction even if you absorbed some through your eyes.
Typical reactions to isocyanates according to the CDC:
Isocyanates are powerful irritants to the mucous membranes of the eyes and gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts. Direct skin contact can also cause marked inflammation. Isocyanates can also sensitize workers, making them subject to severe asthma attacks if they are exposed again. Death from severe asthma in some sensitized subjects has been reported. Workers potentially exposed to isocyanates who experience persistent or recurring eye irritation, nasal congestion, dry or sore throat, cold-like symptoms, cough, shortness of breath, wheezing, or chest tightness should see a physician knowledgeable in work-related health problems.
I have shot isocyanate paints for many years using the TC23 cartridge. Proper fitment of the respirator is critical. It sounds to me like you did it all correctly.
I think you most likely ate something that didn't agree with your internals and is a coincidence is my best guess.
Get feeling better and get back to work on your project.
btw, 3M recommends a supplied air respirator for isocyanates, but they do produce TC23/84A rated cartidges, so that is probably the reason for confusion on that issue.