Everyone knows that Suntex specializes in producing fiberglass-coated fireproof cloth. Working in this industry requires educating others about fiberglass. Today, let's thoroughly explain the sensation of accidentally getting fiberglass splinters in your hands, how to handle them, and preventive measures!
Getting pricked by fiberglass is very uncomfortable. Upon contact, it feels like a sharp sting from a splinter or a piece of broken glass. The fibers break easily, leaving tiny fragments embedded in the skin, and moving your fingers causes ongoing pain. Fiberglass can also irritate the skin, leading to allergic reactions such as redness, rashes, and itching. Moreover, the fibers are extremely fine and difficult to see with the naked eye, making them hard to locate and adding to psychological discomfort.
So, what should you do if you get pricked?
Stop contact immediately. Avoid rubbing your eyes or touching other parts of your body to prevent transferring the fibers.
Do not squeeze the area directly, as this may push the fibers deeper and make removal more difficult.
Use precise removal methods: Examine the area under bright light with a magnifying glass, gently apply wide adhesive tape to the affected area to lift out shallow fibers, and use sterilized fine-tipped tweezers to carefully remove deeper ones along the direction of entry, avoiding breakage.
Cleaning and relief: Rinse with cool running water and mild soap (avoid hot water). For persistent stinging, soak in a baking soda solution.
Follow-up care: After removal, apply antibiotic ointment to prevent infection. For severe redness and swelling, use hydrocortisone cream for the short term to reduce inflammation and itching.
Seek immediate medical attention if fibers are embedded too deeply, if there is widespread rash, pus formation, severe pain, or if fibers are suspected to have entered the eyes.
How can you protect yourself in the long term and stay cautious?
Wear protective gear: Use cut-resistant gloves (ordinary cotton gloves are insufficient), wear safety goggles to prevent fibers from entering the eyes, and wear long-sleeved work clothes with smooth surfaces and tight cuffs to minimize fiber adhesion.
Manage the environment: Ensure proper ventilation, but avoid directing fans straight at the work area; cover work surfaces with disposable plastic sheets; and designate a separate work area to prevent contamination of living spaces.
Cleaning essentials: After work, use adhesive tape to remove fibers from clothing before taking off protective gear; wash work clothes separately; clean the floor with a HEPA-filter vacuum instead of a broom.
Emergency preparedness: Keep tweezers, a magnifying glass, adhesive tape, and mild cleansers readily available in the work area.
Avoid believing in "home remedies" such as applying honey or flour, as these may increase the risk of infection. Fiberglass fragments pose significant risks to children and pets, so strictly isolate the work area. Improper handling of fiberglass splinters can lead to prolonged discomfort. Prevention is always more important than dealing with the aftermath. For those frequently working with such materials, it is advisable to standardize protective procedures and regularly inspect tools for wear.