Standard Classification of Potential Health and Safety Concerns Associated With Thermal Insulation Materials and Accessories

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 The purpose of this classification is to identify potential concerns and effects which may occur during the life cycle (installation, service, removal, and disposal) of insulation materials and accessories resulting from direct contact or indirect action or events.  
4.2 This classification does not identify remedial or preventive steps that may be taken to correct potential problems or hazards; rather it is intended as a checklist that will make it easier to deal constructively with these potentials, and to determine what, if any, specific requirements need to be added to other standards concerning insulation materials or accessories. (See Appendix X2 for sources of information.)  
4.3 This classification recognizes that proper handling and installation procedures can substantially reduce the potential concerns and effects. Further, it recognizes that in some situations the presence or creation of potential effects or hazards results from an intervening act of human or natural origin, or depends on access to or contact with the materials or accessories. Lack of compatibility of the individual components of an insulation system with each other or the environmental conditions within which the system will operate, or both, may create unanticipated effects. (See Appendix X3.)
SCOPE
1.1 This classification identifies potential concerns and effects that could result from direct contact with thermal insulation materials and accessories, or be caused by indirect action of events such as aging, fire, or physical disturbance.  
1.2 Intent of Classification:  
1.2.1 It is the intent of this classification to alert others to potential concerns, effects, hazards, or risk.  
1.2.2 It is not the intent of this classification to establish the degree of risk or hazard or limiting values of potential hazards.  
1.2.3 It is not the intent of this classification to establish or recommend methods or markings to reduce or mitigate the potential; however, it is recognized that correct procedures and precautionary measures can substantially reduce or eliminate some of the potential concerns, effects, hazards, or risks.  
Note 1: See Appendix X1 for commentary.  
1.3 This classification recognizes the responsibility of producers and users, as appropriate, to: (1) provide information on known effects or hazards, (2) advise on established safety and health practices, and (3) determine applicable regulatory requirements.  
1.4 This classification does not address the health and safety concerns of thermal insulation materials and accessories during manufacture.  
1.5 Omission of an item from this classification does not imply an absence of potential concerns or effects.  
1.6 There is no importance in the order of listing.  
1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

General Information

Status
Published
Publication Date
31-Dec-2018
Technical Committee
C16 - Thermal Insulation
Drafting Committee
C16.40 - Insulation Systems

Relations

Effective Date
01-Jan-2019
Effective Date
01-Apr-2020
Effective Date
01-Feb-2014
Effective Date
01-Sep-2009
Effective Date
01-Oct-2003
Effective Date
10-Mar-1999

Overview

ASTM C930-19 - Standard Classification of Potential Health and Safety Concerns Associated With Thermal Insulation Materials and Accessories - provides a comprehensive checklist identifying potential health and safety concerns arising from the use of thermal insulation materials and related accessories throughout their lifecycle: installation, service, removal, and disposal. Developed by ASTM Committee C16, this international standard is designed to support manufacturers, specifiers, installers, and users in recognizing possible issues arising from direct contact or indirect events such as fire, aging, or disturbance of insulation systems.

While ASTM C930-19 does not prescribe remedial actions or establish degree of risk, it serves as a structured resource to help stakeholders address or preempt potential concerns by reviewing system compatibility and handling practices, and by referencing existing regulatory requirements.

Keywords: thermal insulation, health effects, safety concerns, installation, removal, ASTM C930, insulation system compatibility, structural hazards, fire safety

Key Topics

Potential Health and Safety Effects Identified:

  • Direct Contact Hazards: Risks associated with physical contact, including cuts, abrasions, punctures, thermal burns, or exposure to hazardous chemicals present in insulation materials or accessories.
  • Indirect Action/Event Hazards: Issues triggered by events such as aging, fire, physical disturbance, or incompatibility with other materials, potentially leading to hazardous emissions, structural failure, or combustion byproducts.
  • Combustion and Fire Hazards: Concerns arising from smoke, toxic gases, heat generation, and reduced visibility during fire events involving insulation materials.
  • Structural Impact: Potential weakening or failure of building structures due to overloading or material deterioration, possibly leading to collapse.
  • Electrical Hazards: Possibility of electrical shock or fire from insulation in contact with wiring, especially if insulation is conductive or if old wiring is present.
  • Material Compatibility: Risks of unexpected reactions or failures due to incompatibility between system components or unsuitable environmental conditions.

Responsibilities:

  • Producers and users are responsible for providing information on known hazards, advising on safe handling, and identifying applicable regulatory requirements.
  • Safety Data Sheets (SDS) should be reviewed for all materials to determine health and safety impacts.

Applications

Practical Uses of ASTM C930-19:

  • Standards Development: Assists technical committees and standards writers in considering health and safety aspects when drafting requirements for insulation materials.
  • Specification and Procurement: Supports architects, engineers, and specifiers in evaluating potential concerns before selecting products for projects.
  • Installer Awareness: Acts as a checklist for installers to identify possible hazards during installation, removal, or maintenance procedures, emphasizing proper handling to mitigate risks.
  • Risk Assessment: Enables facility managers and safety professionals to identify potential issues throughout the lifecycle of insulation, informing risk management strategies.
  • Compliance and Regulation: Provides a reference for meeting regulatory requirements concerning health and safety during use of insulation products.

Related Standards

Complementary and Referenced Standards:

  • ASTM C1055 - Guide for Heated System Surface Conditions that Produce Contact Burn Injuries
  • ASTM E05, E34, and F23 Committees - Fire standards, occupational health and safety, and protective clothing
  • National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Standards - Fire hazard guidance relevant to insulation materials
  • OSHA 29 CFR 1910.1200 - Hazard Communication Standard for Safety Data Sheets

Industry Resources:

  • Organizations such as the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH), National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), and Underwriters Laboratories (UL) provide additional information on health, safety, and fire risks.

ASTM C930-19 is a foundational reference for identifying and addressing health and safety issues related to thermal insulation systems, enabling informed decision-making for manufacturers, specifiers, and end-users alike. Implementing its classification can enhance safety practices and reduce risks throughout the service life of insulation materials and accessories.

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Frequently Asked Questions

ASTM C930-19 is a standard published by ASTM International. Its full title is "Standard Classification of Potential Health and Safety Concerns Associated With Thermal Insulation Materials and Accessories". This standard covers: SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 4.1 The purpose of this classification is to identify potential concerns and effects which may occur during the life cycle (installation, service, removal, and disposal) of insulation materials and accessories resulting from direct contact or indirect action or events. 4.2 This classification does not identify remedial or preventive steps that may be taken to correct potential problems or hazards; rather it is intended as a checklist that will make it easier to deal constructively with these potentials, and to determine what, if any, specific requirements need to be added to other standards concerning insulation materials or accessories. (See Appendix X2 for sources of information.) 4.3 This classification recognizes that proper handling and installation procedures can substantially reduce the potential concerns and effects. Further, it recognizes that in some situations the presence or creation of potential effects or hazards results from an intervening act of human or natural origin, or depends on access to or contact with the materials or accessories. Lack of compatibility of the individual components of an insulation system with each other or the environmental conditions within which the system will operate, or both, may create unanticipated effects. (See Appendix X3.) SCOPE 1.1 This classification identifies potential concerns and effects that could result from direct contact with thermal insulation materials and accessories, or be caused by indirect action of events such as aging, fire, or physical disturbance. 1.2 Intent of Classification: 1.2.1 It is the intent of this classification to alert others to potential concerns, effects, hazards, or risk. 1.2.2 It is not the intent of this classification to establish the degree of risk or hazard or limiting values of potential hazards. 1.2.3 It is not the intent of this classification to establish or recommend methods or markings to reduce or mitigate the potential; however, it is recognized that correct procedures and precautionary measures can substantially reduce or eliminate some of the potential concerns, effects, hazards, or risks. Note 1: See Appendix X1 for commentary. 1.3 This classification recognizes the responsibility of producers and users, as appropriate, to: (1) provide information on known effects or hazards, (2) advise on established safety and health practices, and (3) determine applicable regulatory requirements. 1.4 This classification does not address the health and safety concerns of thermal insulation materials and accessories during manufacture. 1.5 Omission of an item from this classification does not imply an absence of potential concerns or effects. 1.6 There is no importance in the order of listing. 1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 4.1 The purpose of this classification is to identify potential concerns and effects which may occur during the life cycle (installation, service, removal, and disposal) of insulation materials and accessories resulting from direct contact or indirect action or events. 4.2 This classification does not identify remedial or preventive steps that may be taken to correct potential problems or hazards; rather it is intended as a checklist that will make it easier to deal constructively with these potentials, and to determine what, if any, specific requirements need to be added to other standards concerning insulation materials or accessories. (See Appendix X2 for sources of information.) 4.3 This classification recognizes that proper handling and installation procedures can substantially reduce the potential concerns and effects. Further, it recognizes that in some situations the presence or creation of potential effects or hazards results from an intervening act of human or natural origin, or depends on access to or contact with the materials or accessories. Lack of compatibility of the individual components of an insulation system with each other or the environmental conditions within which the system will operate, or both, may create unanticipated effects. (See Appendix X3.) SCOPE 1.1 This classification identifies potential concerns and effects that could result from direct contact with thermal insulation materials and accessories, or be caused by indirect action of events such as aging, fire, or physical disturbance. 1.2 Intent of Classification: 1.2.1 It is the intent of this classification to alert others to potential concerns, effects, hazards, or risk. 1.2.2 It is not the intent of this classification to establish the degree of risk or hazard or limiting values of potential hazards. 1.2.3 It is not the intent of this classification to establish or recommend methods or markings to reduce or mitigate the potential; however, it is recognized that correct procedures and precautionary measures can substantially reduce or eliminate some of the potential concerns, effects, hazards, or risks. Note 1: See Appendix X1 for commentary. 1.3 This classification recognizes the responsibility of producers and users, as appropriate, to: (1) provide information on known effects or hazards, (2) advise on established safety and health practices, and (3) determine applicable regulatory requirements. 1.4 This classification does not address the health and safety concerns of thermal insulation materials and accessories during manufacture. 1.5 Omission of an item from this classification does not imply an absence of potential concerns or effects. 1.6 There is no importance in the order of listing. 1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

ASTM C930-19 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 91.100.60 - Thermal and sound insulating materials. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.

ASTM C930-19 has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to ASTM C930-18, ASTM C1055-20, ASTM C1055-03(2014), ASTM C1055-03(2009), ASTM C1055-03, ASTM C1055-99. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.

ASTM C930-19 is available in PDF format for immediate download after purchase. The document can be added to your cart and obtained through the secure checkout process. Digital delivery ensures instant access to the complete standard document.

Standards Content (Sample)


This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation:C930 −19
Standard Classification of
Potential Health and Safety Concerns Associated With
Thermal Insulation Materials and Accessories
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C930; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.
1. Scope 2. Referenced Documents
1.1 This classification identifies potential concerns and ef-
2.1 ASTM Standards
fects that could result from direct contact with thermal insula-
C1055 Guide for Heated System Surface Conditions that
tion materials and accessories, or be caused by indirect action
Produce Contact Burn Injuries
of events such as aging, fire, or physical disturbance.
3. Terminology
1.2 Intent of Classification:
3.1 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
1.2.1 It is the intent of this classification to alert others to
potential concerns, effects, hazards, or risk. 3.1.1 degree of risk—the probability or expected frequency
of the event, multiplied by the expected magnitude of exposure
1.2.2 It is not the intent of this classification to establish the
degree of risk or hazard or limiting values of potential hazards. and the potential for harm.
1.2.3 It is not the intent of this classification to establish or
3.1.2 direct contact—the straightforward touching resulting
recommend methods or markings to reduce or mitigate the
from use, manipulation, placement, etc.
potential; however, it is recognized that correct procedures and
3.1.3 hazard—a condition or set of circumstances that
precautionary measures can substantially reduce or eliminate
presents a specific injury or adverse health potential.
some of the potential concerns, effects, hazards, or risks.
3.1.4 indirect action or events—the actions or events that
NOTE 1—See Appendix X1 for commentary.
are not directly created by, or straightforwardly caused by, the
1.3 This classification recognizes the responsibility of pro- person(s) potentially exposed to the effects or hazards.
ducers and users, as appropriate, to: (1) provide information on
3.1.5 potential—the possible as opposed to the actual; that
known effects or hazards, (2) advise on established safety and
which may, but has not yet, come into being; that which is
health practices, and (3) determine applicable regulatory re-
latent, unrealized.
quirements.
3.1.6 risk—the exposure to chance of injury or illness or
1.4 Thisclassificationdoesnotaddressthehealthandsafety
loss.
concernsofthermalinsulationmaterialsandaccessoriesduring
3.1.6.1 Discussion—Riskisacombinationofhazardandthe
manufacture.
probability of harm.
1.5 Omission of an item from this classification does not
4. Significance and Use
imply an absence of potential concerns or effects.
4.1 The purpose of this classification is to identify potential
1.6 There is no importance in the order of listing.
concerns and effects which may occur during the life cycle
1.7 This international standard was developed in accor-
(installation, service, removal, and disposal) of insulation
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
materials and accessories resulting from direct contact or
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
indirect action or events.
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
4.2 This classification does not identify remedial or preven-
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
tive steps that may be taken to correct potential problems or
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
hazards; rather it is intended as a checklist that will make it
This classification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee C16 on
Thermal Insulation and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee C16.40 on
Insulation Systems. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Current edition approved Jan. 1, 2019. Published January 2019. Originally contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
approved in 1980. Last previous edition approved in 2018 as C930 – 18. DOI: Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
10.1520/C0930-19. the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
C930−19
easier to deal constructively with these potentials, and to 5.2.1.1 A Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is required by the
determine what, if any, specific requirements need to be added Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), U.S.
to other standards concerning insulation materials or accesso- Department of Labor (29 CFR 1910.1200) for hazardous
ries. (See Appendix X2 for sources of information.) chemicals produced in the United States, or imported. (The
SDS for any product or material is issued and available from
4.3 This classification recognizes that proper handling and
the organization producing the product or material.)
installation procedures can substantially reduce the potential
5.2.1.2 The SDS for any insulation product, system, or
concerns and effects. Further, it recognizes that in some
accessory (including adhesives) should be obtained and re-
situations the presence or creation of potential effects or
viewed to determine any potential effect on humans using or
hazards results from an intervening act of human or natural
installing the material.
origin, or depends on access to or contact with the materials or
5.2.1.3 When tests are included in a standard, the SDS for
accessories. Lack of compatibility of the individual compo-
chemicals required should be reviewed to ensure that proper
nents of an insulation system with each other or the environ-
guidance for safe handling and use is incorporated.
mental conditions within which the system will operate, or
5.2.2 Potential Traumatic Injury Effects (Table 1)—These
both, may create unanticipated effects. (See Appendix X3.)
effects may result from sharp or rough materials or accessories
which have protrusions or abrasive surfaces, cause
5. Basis of Classification
overheating,ortransmitelectricalenergy,andgenerallyrequire
5.1 Classification is based on several broad groupings of
direct contact with the material or accessory causing
potential concerns that could result from direct contact with
lacerations, abrasions, punctures, etc.
thermal insulation materials and accessories, or be caused by
5.2.3 Potential Effects Resulting from Combustion—Those
indirect actions or events.
effects that result principally from the emission of heat, gases
5.2 Potentials that occur from direct contact or indirect (toxic and non-toxic), fibers, particulates, and depletion of
action or events are described as follows: oxygen which takes place during combustion that exposes or
5.2.1 Potential Health Effects—Thoseeffectsthatcreaterisk involves insulation materials or accessories. The exposure
of temporary or permanent changes in normal body functions effects can result from the actual combustion process or from
and biochemical activity. The latter may involve vapors (such the effluents that originate as a consequence of the combustion.
as organic solvent fumes), corrosive liquids (acids, alkalies, Combustion can cause thermal effects (burns or scalds), toxic
and organics), and solids (usually high surface area particu- effects (resulting from the inhalation of asphyxiant or irritant
lates) that react with body tissues or fluids. combustion products, typically contained in the vapor phase),
TABLE 1 Potential Traumatic Injury
Insulation Product, Potential Exposure Potential Effect on Humans
System, or Accessory
Cellular glass abrasive surface Contact may abrade skin
Encapsulated or reflective insulation high surface temperature Contact may cause thermal burns.
Insulation materials and accessories application of thermal insulation
around or adjacent to electrical
wiring or fixtures (particularly
important if the covering on the
electrical circuit is old) may
A
produce:
(a) overheating that could result Electrical shock
in deterioration of the wire
covering and contact with
electrical energy
(b) if subject to moisture Electrical shock
accumulation could result in
deterioration of the wire covering
and contact with electrical energy
(c) overheating that could result Thermal burns
in fire
Man-made vitreous fibers: fiber stalks or bundles Contact may abrade or puncture skin.
Glass
Mineral wool
Refractory
Metal encapsulated or reflective insulation electrically conductive Contact may transmit electrical energy if
touching an electrical circuit resulting in minor
or serious electrical shock.
Metal foil electrically conductive Contact may transmit electrical energy if
touching an electrical circuit resulting in minor
or serious electrical shock.
Sheet metal lagging, bands, fasteners, sheet sharp or pointed edges Contact may cause skin cuts, tears or
metal punctures.
A
Also see Table 2.
C930−19
dermal effects (such as skin irritation) and impaired vision due (Society of Fire Protection Engineers) are potential resources
to smoke obscuration. In some cases, smoke, or some toxicants to better understand the effects of combustion or fire.
contained in smoke, can cause eye irritation and other health 5.2.4 Potential Effects from Structural Conditions (Table
effects. The principal effect of smoke obscuration is not an 2)—Those effects that result principally from the overloading
ordeteriorationofstructuralmembersofabuildingresultingin
actualhealtheffectbuttheresultinglossofvisibility,whichcan
impair egress or rescue, or both, in case of fire. The effects failure of the structure, or a portion of it, and its collapse on
occupants.
resulting from combustion (or fire) are a function of the
material(ormaterials)involvedinthefire,thefirescenarioand 5.2.5 Guidance on Burn Injuries. Guide C1055 provides
guidance on burn injuries associated with heated system
the amount of material that has burnt. Any combustible
insulation material has the potential to be involved in fires. surface contacts.
ASTM Committees E05 (on Fire Standards), E34 (on Occu-
6. Keywords
pational Health and Safety) and F23 (on Protective Clothing),
as well as NFPA (National Fire Protection Association), SFPE 6.1 hazards; health effects; injury; safety
C930−19
TABLE 2 Potential Effects Resulting from Structural Conditions
In
...


This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: C930 − 18 C930 − 19
Standard Classification of
Potential Health and Safety Concerns Associated With
Thermal Insulation Materials and Accessories
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C930; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.
1. Scope
1.1 This classification identifies potential concerns and effects that could result from direct contact with thermal insulation
materials and accessories, or be caused by indirect action of events such as aging, fire, or physical disturbance.
1.2 Intent of Classification:
1.2.1 It is the intent of this classification to alert others to potential concerns, effects, hazards, or risk.
1.2.2 It is not the intent of this classification to establish the degree of risk or hazard or limiting values of potential hazards.
1.2.3 It is not the intent of this classification to establish or recommend methods or markings to reduce or mitigate the potential;
however, it is recognized that correct procedures and precautionary measures can substantially reduce or eliminate some of the
potential concerns, effects, hazards, or risks.
NOTE 1—See Appendix X1 for commentary.
1.3 This classification recognizes the responsibility of producers and users, as appropriate, to: (1) provide information on known
effects or hazards, (2) advise on established safety and health practices, and (3) determine applicable regulatory requirements.
1.4 This classification does not address the health and safety concerns of thermal insulation materials and accessories during
manufacture.
1.5 Omission of an item from this classification does not imply an absence of potential concerns or effects.
1.6 There is no importance in the order of listing.
1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization
established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued
by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards
C1055 Guide for Heated System Surface Conditions that Produce Contact Burn Injuries
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.1.1 degree of risk—the probability or expected frequency of the event, multiplied by the expected magnitude of exposure and
the potential for harm.
3.1.2 direct contact—the straightforward touching resulting from use, manipulation, placement, etc.
3.1.3 hazard—a condition or set of circumstances that presents a specific injury or adverse health potential.
3.1.4 indirect action or events—the actions or events that are not directly created by, or straightforwardly caused by, the
person(s) potentially exposed to the effects or hazards.
This classification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee C16 on Thermal Insulation and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee C16.40 on Insulation
Systems.
Current edition approved Feb. 1, 2018Jan. 1, 2019. Published February 2018January 2019. Originally approved in 1980. Last previous edition approved in 20122018 as
C930 – 12.C930 – 18. DOI: 10.1520/C0930-18.10.1520/C0930-19.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
C930 − 19
3.1.5 potential—the possible as opposed to the actual; that which may, but has not yet, come into being; that which is latent,
unrealized.
3.1.6 risk—the exposure to chance of injury or illness or loss.
3.1.6.1 Discussion—
Risk is a combination of hazard and the probability of harm.
4. Significance and Use
4.1 The purpose of this classification is to identify potential concerns and effects which may occur during the life cycle
(installation, service, removal, and disposal) of insulation materials and accessories resulting from direct contact or indirect action
or events.
4.2 This classification does not identify remedial or preventive steps that may be taken to correct potential problems or hazards;
rather it is intended as a checklist that will make it easier to deal constructively with these potentials, and to determine what, if
any, specific requirements need to be added to other standards concerning insulation materials or accessories. (See Appendix X2
for sources of information.)
4.3 This classification recognizes that proper handling and installation procedures can substantially reduce the potential
concerns and effects. Further, it recognizes that in some situations the presence or creation of potential effects or hazards results
from an intervening act of human or natural origin, or depends on access to or contact with the materials or accessories. Lack of
compatibility of the individual components of an insulation system with each other or the environmental conditions within which
the system will operate, or both, may create unanticipated effects. (See Appendix X3.)
5. Basis of Classification
5.1 Classification is based on several broad groupings of potential concerns that could result from direct contact with thermal
insulation materials and accessories, or be caused by indirect actions or events.
5.2 Potentials that occur from direct contact or indirect action or events are described as follows:
5.2.1 Potential Health Effects—Those effects that create risk of temporary or permanent changes in normal body functions and
biochemical activity. The latter may involve vapors (such as organic solvent fumes), corrosive liquids (acids, alkalies, and
organics), and solids (usually high surface area particulates) that react with body tissues or fluids.
5.2.1.1 A Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is required by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), U.S. Department
of Labor (29 CFR 1910.1200) for hazardous chemicals produced in the United States, or imported. (The SDS for any product or
material is issued and available from the organization producing the product or material.)
5.2.1.2 The SDS for any insulation product, system, or accessory (including adhesives) should be obtained and reviewed to
determine any potential effect on humans using or installing the material.
5.2.1.3 When tests are included in a standard, the SDS for chemicals required should be reviewed to ensure that proper guidance
for safe handling and use is incorporated.
5.2.2 Potential Traumatic Injury Effects (Table 1)—These effects may result from sharp or rough materials or accessories which
have protrusions or abrasive surfaces, cause overheating, or transmit electrical energy, and generally require direct contact with the
material or accessory causing lacerations, abrasions, punctures, etc.
5.2.3 Potential Effects Resulting from Combustion—Those effects that result principally from the emission of heat, gases (toxic
and non-toxic), fibers, particulates, and depletion of oxygen which takes place during combustion that exposes or involves
insulation materials or accessories. The exposure effects can result from the actual combustion process or from the effluents that
originate as a consequence of the combustion. Combustion can cause thermal effects (burns or scalds), toxic effects (resulting from
the inhalation of asphyxiant or irritant combustion products, typically contained in the vapor phase), dermal effects (such as skin
irritation) and impaired vision due to smoke obscuration, obscuration. In some cases, smoke, or some toxicants contained in smoke,
can cause eye irritation and other health effects. The principal effect of smoke obscuration is not an actual health effect but the
resulting loss of visibility, which can impair egress or rescue, or both, in case of fire. The effects resulting from combustion (or
fire) are a function of the material (or materials) involved in the fire, the fire scenario and the amount of material that has burnt.
Any combustible insulation material has the potential to be involved in fires. ASTM Committees E05 (on Fire Standards), E34 (on
Occupational Health and Safety) and F23 (on Protective Clothing), as well as NFPA (National Fire Protection Association), SFPE
(Society of Fire Protection Engineers) are potential resources to better understand the effects of combustion or fire.
5.2.4 Potential Effects from Structural Conditions (Table 2)—Those effects that result principally from the overloading or
deterioration of structural members of a building resulting in failure of the structure, or a portion of it, and its collapse on
occupants.
5.2.5 Guidance on Burn Injuries. Guide C1055 provides guidance on burn injuries associated with heated system surface
contacts.
C930 − 19
TABLE 1 Potential Traumatic Injury
Insulation Product, Potential Exposure Potential Effect on Humans
System, or Accessory
Cellular glass abrasive surface Contact may abrade skin
Encapsulated or reflective insulation high surface temperature Contact may cause thermal burns.
Insulation materials and accessories application of thermal insulation
around or adjacent to electrical
wiring or fixtures (particularly
important if the covering on the
electrical circuit is old) may
A
produce:
(a) overheating that could result Electrical shock
in deterioration of the wire
covering and contact with
electrical energy
(b) if subject to moisture Electrical shock
accumulation could result in
deterioration of the wire covering
and contact with electrical energy
(c) overheating that could result Thermal burns
in fire
Man-made vitreous fibers: fiber stalks or bundles Contact may abrade or puncture skin.
Glass
Mineral wool
Refractory
Metal encapsulated or reflective insulation electrically conductive Contact may transmit electrical energy if
touching an electrical circuit resulting in minor
or serious electrical shock.
Metal foil electrically conductive Contact may transmit electrical energy if
touching an electrical circuit resulting in minor
or serious electrical shock.
Sheet metal lagging, bands, fasteners, sheet sharp or pointed edges Contact may cause skin cuts, tears or
metal punctures.
A
Also see Table 2.
TABLE 2 Potential Effects Resulting from Structural Conditions
Insulation Product, Potential Exposure Potential Effe
...

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