Petroleum Based Adhesives

Petroleum based adhesives contain volatile organic solvents that pose fire, inhalation, and skin contact hazards.
Common products include contact adhesives, floor tile adhesives, pipe jointing compounds, and bituminous mastics.
COSHH 2002 requires a risk assessment and control measures before using any solvent-based adhesive product.
Solvent vapours are heavier than air, accumulate in low-lying areas, and can reach explosive concentrations.
Inhalation of solvent vapours causes dizziness, headaches, nausea, and long-term liver and kidney damage.
Prolonged skin contact with petroleum solvents strips natural oils causing dermatitis and chemical burns.
The Safety Data Sheet for each product specifies the required PPE, ventilation, and first aid procedures.
Highly Flammable Liquids (HFLs) labelling on adhesive containers indicates the flash point is below 32°C.
Many adhesive manufacturers now offer water-based or low-VOC alternatives that reduce health and fire risk.
Empty containers still contain flammable vapour and must be treated as hazardous waste for disposal.

Fire and explosion	Solvent vapours from adhesives are highly flammable and can ignite from a spark, cigarette, or hot works nearby.
Long-term health damage	Chronic exposure to petroleum solvents causes irreversible damage to the brain, liver, kidneys, and nervous system.
Acute intoxication	High vapour concentrations in enclosed spaces can cause rapid loss of consciousness and death from oxygen displacement.

Do

Don't

Read the Safety Data Sheet and COSHH assessment before using any adhesive product.
Ensure adequate ventilation is in place — open doors and windows or use forced extraction.
Wear the PPE specified in the COSHH assessment including solvent-resistant gloves.
Use a suitable respirator with organic vapour filters when ventilation is insufficient.
Keep containers sealed when not actively dispensing adhesive to limit vapour release.
Store adhesives in a cool, ventilated, fire-resistant cabinet away from ignition sources.
Use water-based or low-VOC alternatives wherever the specification allows substitution.
Provide fire extinguishers suitable for flammable liquid fires near the application area.
Wash skin immediately with soap and water if adhesive contact occurs during use.
Dispose of used rags, applicators, and empty containers as hazardous waste correctly.

DON'T use solvent-based adhesives in unventilated rooms, basements, or confined spaces.
DON'T smoke, weld, grind, or use naked flames near adhesive application areas.
DON'T use petroleum adhesives without completing the COSHH assessment first.
DON'T pour unused adhesive down drains, into excavations, or onto open ground.
DON'T use bare hands to apply adhesive — solvents penetrate skin rapidly.
DON'T store solvent-based adhesives near heat sources, radiators, or direct sunlight.
DON'T use adhesives in areas where other workers are present without adequate ventilation.
DON'T decant adhesives into unmarked or food-grade containers under any circumstances.
DON'T leave adhesive-soaked rags piled together — spontaneous combustion can occur.
DON'T assume empty adhesive containers are safe — residual vapours remain flammable.

See also: COSHH Awareness | Flammable Materials Storage

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