How bad for your lungs is it to be around loose fiberglass?

Question

My boyfriend and I are thinking getting his attic finished. We we were up there looking around without masks on. There is loose fiberglass all over and he was walking on it stirring it up.

Answer 1

A one-time exposure is something the body can deal with. The lungs encapsulate the fibers in macrophages, and expell them from the lungs over time. However, repeated exposure to airborn fiberglass is dangerous to your health. The tiny glass fibers form spears, and penetrate the alveoli, or air sacs, of the lungs. In sufficiant quantity, it can produce symptoms of asthma or far worse.

A $40.00 respirator with good cartridges, tightly fitted, should offer reasonable protection. A Tyvek suit with hood and booties will greatly reduce skin irritation and is recommended for projects that will involve long-term exposure.

http://www.seacoastonline.com/2001news/hampton/h3_18d.htm

Answer 2

limited exposure is nothing to worry about but if you are going to be moving it around be sure to wear a mask, also long sleeves and gloves.
if you choose to do this, after your done make sure to take a hot shower to open up pores this will get the majority of fiberglass out of your skin

Answer 3

It is very bad, so don't do it again with a mask. Fiberglass can wreck havoc on the lungs. You might want to consult with your doctor about this exposure.

Answer 4

It's not terrific for your lungs, but a short term exposure to it usually doesn't cause any lasting damage.

Unlike asbestos, fiberglass will eventually dissolve away.

Just don't make a habit of breathing it and you should be fine.

Answer 5

We just removed old insulation from our attic. The dust was terrible. It caused us a lot of coughing, even with wearing masks. Be sure you have good ventilation when you are doing the work.

Answer 6

It's bad but I don't think you were exposed to it long enough for it to be a problem. It's long term exposure that is really bad.