Assessment of health implications related to processing and use of natural wool insulation products

Autor: E. Mansour, C. Loxton, R.M. Elias, G.A. Ormondroyd
Jazyk: angličtina
Rok vydání: 2014
Předmět:
Zdroj: Environment International, Vol 73, Iss , Pp 402-412 (2014)
Druh dokumentu: article
ISSN: 0160-4120
DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2014.08.004
Popis: This paper discusses possible health implications related to dust particles released during the manufacture of sheep's wool-based non-woven insulation material. Such insulation may replace traditional synthetic insulation products used in roofs, wall cavities, etc. A review of the literature concerning organic dusts in general and sheep's wool fiber summarizes dust exposure patterns, toxicological pathways and the hazards imposed by inhalation and explosion risk. This paper highlights a need for more research in order to refrain from overgeneralizing potential pulmonary and carcinogenic risks across the industries. Variables existing between industries such as the use of different wool types, processes, and additives are shown to have varying health effects. Within the final section of the paper, the health issues raised are compared with those that have been extensively documented for the rock and glass wool industries. Keywords: Wool, Natural fiber, Insulation, Dust, Health, Exposure
Databáze: Directory of Open Access Journals