Epoxy and isocyanates in Denmark. Training, health and who must not.

The short answer

Products containing epoxy and isocyanates can irritate the skin and cause severe eczema and allergy. Isocyanates can also irritate the mucous membranes and cause respiratory allergy and asthma. That is why people working with epoxy and isocyanates in Denmark must have suitable occupational health and safety training and a training certificate.

The requirements are set out in the Danish order on work with substances and materials (annex 3) and the order on occupational health and safety training (annex 10), which the Danish Working Environment Authority refers to.

Who must not work with them?

The Danish Working Environment Authority (Arbejdstilsynet) states:

Exposure to isocyanates is a serious health hazard for people who already have a respiratory allergy.

Health risks

• Skin contact can cause eczema and allergy.
• Isocyanate vapours can cause coughing, chest tightness and breathing difficulties, in some cases several hours after exposure. The vapours also irritate the eyes, nose and throat.
• Once you are sensitised to isocyanates, any exposure can trigger an asthma attack.
• The isocyanates MDI and TDI are classified as possibly carcinogenic.
• When heated above 150 degrees, for example by welding, grinding or cutting treated surfaces, cured material can release isocyanates.

The employer's responsibility

The employer must always consider whether the products can be avoided or replaced with something less hazardous. If not, the work must be planned on the basis of a chemical risk assessment. The employer must, among other things, ensure:

• that the work is only done by people who have completed the mandatory training
• effective training and instruction, also in writing
• supervision that the work is done safely
• access to hand washing, showers, separate changing rooms and an eye wash bottle
• that a doctor is consulted if anyone develops eczema, breathing difficulties, chemical burns or eye injuries

What you must do

• Hold proof that you have completed the mandatory training.
• Know the health hazards and where to find the safety data sheets.
• Use and dispose of protective equipment as instructed.
• Wash your hands at breaks, before using the toilet, eating and smoking.
• See a doctor if you develop eczema, breathing difficulties, chemical burns or eye injuries.

If your employer asks for a medical

Some employers ask for a health assessment before employees start working with epoxy. See Epoxy Medical. The price is DKK 812.50 incl. VAT, and it takes about 15 minutes. Call +45 70 60 33 38 to arrange a time.

Sources: Arbejdstilsynet (Danish Working Environment Authority), Epoxy og isocyanater; Arbejdstilsynet, Arbejdsgiverens ansvar ved arbejde med epoxy og isocyanater, which refers to the order on work with substances and materials (chemical agents), BEK no. 581 of 2026, annex 3, and the order on occupational health and safety training, BEK no. 1978 of 2021, annex 10. Read September 2026. This page is practical guidance and does not replace the doctor's assessment on the day.

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