Health monitoring for isocyanates

This guide helps doctors monitor the health of workers exposed to isocyanates.  

Isocyanates are a group of highly reactive, organic compounds of the formula R-N=C=O.  

Examples of work with isocyanates include work where you release isocyanates as vapours, aerosols and mists, such as: 

• spray painting, using two-pack paints with an isocyanate hardener in vehicle paints 
• using rigid foams for heat insulation 
• using flexible foams for bedding and upholstery 
• using hard-wearing coatings for furniture and floors 
• making sporting goods such as skis, surfboards and footwear 
• spray on polyurethane products 

Isocyanates are also in: 

• processes where heat breaks down polyurethane products 
• foundry operations. 

This guide is part of a health monitoring guide collection. 

There are also health monitoring guides for: 

• persons conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) 
• guide for workers 
• registered medical practitioners 
• hazardous chemicals. 

Supporting information

• Guide to handling isocyanates