09/14/2025
Is polyurethane hiding in your finish?
What to look for 👉 Isocyanates
Isocyanates are highly reactive chemical compounds, identified by their -N=C=O functional group, and are crucial in the production of polyurethane products, finishes and foams being the most common. Exposure to isocyanates can cause severe health issues, including respiratory irritation, skin and eye irritation, and permanent sensitization leading to occupational asthma, making proper personal protective equipment (PPE) and good ventilation essential. Common types of isocyanates include MDI, TDI and HDI. Make sure to check the SDS for the products you are using. Be aware that isocyanates do not have a distinctive odor, so you cannot rely on your sense of smell for protection.
