What if You Touch Fiberglass?
Fiberglass and rockwool are often confused. Here you can read the difference and what happens on contact.
Difference between Fiberglass and Rockwool
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Fiberglass
- •Made from molten glass
- •Very fine fibers (1-3 μm)
- •Mainly for insulation
- •Can cause skin irritation
🪨
Rockwool
- ✓Made from basalt rock
- ✓Coarser fibers (>5 μm)
- ✓For insulation AND growing
- ✓Less irritating to skin
What Happens on Contact with Fiberglass?
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Skin Irritation
Itching and redness from fine fibers
👁️
Eye Irritation
Red, watery eyes on contact
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Airway Irritation
Coughing when inhaling dust
⏱️
Temporary
Symptoms disappear after removing fibers
First Aid for Fiberglass Contact
1
DO NOT rub or scratch2
Shake out clothing (outside)3
Rinse skin with cold water4
Use tape to remove fibers5
Shower with cold water6
Rinse eyes on contactWhy Rockwool is Safer for Growing
- ✓Coarser fibers cannot be inhaled
- ✓Less irritating to skin
- ✓Specially treated for horticulture use
- ✓Meets safety standards for daily use
Prevention Tips
🧤 Always wear gloves with fiberglass
👕 Use protective clothing
😷 Wear dust mask in dusty environment
🚿 Wash immediately after contact
♻️ Choose rockwool for horticulture (safer)