Controlling isocyanate exposure in MVR - the role of biological monitoring

Published: HSE, November 2008

Exposure to isocyanates contained in vehicle spray paints has been the biggest cause of occupational asthma in the UK for more than a decade. A number of substitute materials have been suggested but any substance that possesses similar reactive properties is likely to have adverse effects on humans. Whilst some non-isocyanate primers are available, top coats and lacquers are likely to contain isocyanates for the foreseeable future. And it is important to remember that many ‘water-based’ products still contain isocyanates.

A concerted HSE health campaign has been targeted at bodyshops both directly (via SHADs and inspections) and indirectly (working with intermediaries such as paint and booth manufacturers, insurance companies etc). As a result, improvements in control measures in many facilities have shown that exposure to isocyanates can be prevented and there is evidence this is already leading to a reduction in the cases of asthma.

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