Group Calls for Increased Worker, Consumer Protection at Spray-On Bedliner Businesses

CAIR Warns of Potentially Serious Health Effects Related to Application of Spray-On Truck Bedliners

CUYAHOGA FALLS, Ohio, Oct. 29 -- A non-profit group established to monitor health and safety issues associated with the use of potentially hazardous chemicals has issued a nationwide warning to businesses that apply spray-on bedliners and similar coatings.

The Coalition for Automotive Isocyanate Reduction (CAIR) warns that thousands of technicians applying spray-on linings might not be adequately protected from the harmful affects of airborne isocyanates, a family of toxic chemical compounds commonly used in polyurethane, urethane or polyurea coatings. Some isocyanates have been linked to cancer in animals.

The Washington State Department of Labor and Industries recently issued a hazard alert to businesses applying spray-on coatings, warning that recent state-sponsored safety and health inspections had found workers were exposed to isocyanates well above allowed limits.

"Spray-on truck-bed lining is a newer industry that has expanded rapidly in the past five years," a Labor and Industries news release reported, alluding to the general lack of regulation of the segment. "The agency is conducting targeted inspections in the spray-on truck-bed industry that could result in fines."

According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), contact with airborne isocyanates can cause a variety of health problems, including irritation of the eyes and lungs, upset stomach/vomiting, occupational asthma, and pulmonary edema.

Spray-on bedliners are chemical formulas applied, most commonly through the use of spray guns, to a truck bed or other surface as a means to provide some level of protection against scrapes, dents and other damage. It is believed many spray-on dealerships may not provide workers with adequate protective gear, including spray suits, masks and respiratory equipment. In addition, many spray-on dealers do not utilize self-contained spray booths to reduce exposure to potentially toxic fumes.

For additional information on the potential health and safety risks associated with spray-on linings and similar products containing isocyanates, write to CAIR, P.O. Box 3153, Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44223, or visit www.safespray.org.