However, preliminary studies did show sufficient evidence for the carcinogenic potential of glass fibers and glass wool in animals. In 2002, the International Agency for Research on Cancer found no evidence that fiberglass exposure increases the risk of cancer in humans. However, compared to ceramic fibers, fiberglass dissolves rapidly in lung fluid, so this may be less of a risk. Inhaling long fibers can also lead to lung injuries. heating, ventilation, and air conditioning ductwork cleaning and installationįiberglass exposure can cause temporary eye, skin, lung, and nose irritation as well as stomach discomfort.According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), this includes those who work in: People who work with fiberglass are at risk for fiberglass exposure and its symptoms.

However, in rare cases, a person may develop ongoing symptoms if they frequently work with fiberglass. Short, thick fibers are more likely to cause irritation.įiberglass dermatitis is usually temporary, and people who regularly come into contact with fiberglass often develop a tolerance.

environmental factors, such as humidity or heat.

The extent of the rash depends on several factors, such as: If long glass fibers get stuck in the skin, a person may see them protrude from the surface. On pale skin, the inflammation will be red. This occurs when fiberglass fragments or dust become embedded in the skin’s outer layer.Ī fiberglass rash typically looks like a patch of small blisters with dry, flaky skin.

Skin exposure can result in a rash or fiberglass dermatitis. The symptoms a person develops will depend on how they became exposed to the fiberglass. Share on Pinterest Image credit: Cavan Images/Getty ImagesĪccording to the Agency for Toxic Substances & Disease Registry, fiberglass exposure can lead to the following symptoms:

Rash that get iritaed from touching it