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
- โขMade from molten glass
- โขVery fine fibers (1-3 ฮผm)
- โขMainly for insulation
- โขCan cause skin irritation
๐ชจ
Rockwool
- โMade from basalt rock
- โCoarser fibers (>5 ฮผm)
- โFor insulation AND growing
- โLess irritating to skin
What Happens on Contact with Fiberglass?
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Skin Irritation
Itching and redness from fine fibers
๐๏ธ
Eye Irritation
Red, watery eyes on contact
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Airway Irritation
Coughing when inhaling dust
โฑ๏ธ
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
- โCoarser fibers cannot be inhaled
- โLess irritating to skin
- โSpecially treated for horticulture use
- โMeets safety standards for daily use
Prevention Tips
๐งค Always wear gloves with fiberglass
๐ Use protective clothing
๐ท Wear dust mask in dusty environment
๐ฟ Wash immediately after contact
โป๏ธ Choose rockwool for horticulture (safer)