Mineral Wool SDS Review (Toolbox Certification)

What is Mineral Wool?
Mineral wool, also called stone wool, or rockwool is used for thermal insulation, soundproofing, and fire protection. It’s made primarily from volcanic rock and recycled materials, often supplied with facings like foil, mesh, or boards.

Is Mineral Wool Hazardous?

• NOT classified as hazardous under GHS regulations.
• NOT carcinogenic – The fibers used are considered safe and not suspected of causing cancer.
• However, dust can cause temporary itching or irritation to skin, eyes, and throat when handling or cutting the material.

How to Handle Safely

• Use a utility knife instead of power tools to reduce dust.
• If power tools are necessary, use dust extraction or wet cutting methods.
• Ensure good ventilation, especially in enclosed areas.
• Avoid unnecessary handling of unwrapped products.

Recommended PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)

• Eye Protection: Use safety goggles, especially when working overhead or where dust is present.
• Gloves: Wear gloves to reduce skin irritation.
• Skin Protection: Cover exposed skin to minimize contact with fibers.
• Respiratory Protection: Use a disposable face mask when dust is likely, especially in unventilated areas. We supply N95 respirators. Key Differences between the masks. Filtration: N95 filters 95% of airborne particles.
• FFP1 only filters 80%, so it's less protective.
• Wash-Up Tip: Rinse skin with cold water first before washing with soap to reduce itching.

First Aid Measures

• Inhalation: Move to fresh air, rinse mouth and throat.
• Skin Contact: Wash with cold water and mild soap.
• Eye Contact: Rinse eyes with clean water for at least 15 minutes.
• Ingestion: Drink water. Seek medical attention if symptoms continue.

Fire Safety Info

• Mineral wool is non-combustible.
• Packaging or facings may burn—use standard extinguishers (water, foam, CO₂, or dry powder).
• Firefighters should use standard PPE.

Spills & Cleanup

• Not harmful to the environment.
• Clean up with a HEPA vacuum or dampen with water before sweeping.
• Avoid generating airborne dust.

Storage Guidelines

• Store in a dry place in its original packaging if possible.
• No known incompatible materials.
• Packaging may include plastic wrap, cardboard, or pallets.

Disposal Info

• Mineral wool is recyclable and considered non-hazardous waste.
• Dispose of per local regulations under EWC Code 17 06 04 (non-hazardous insulation materials).
• Avoid mixing with hazardous waste to keep disposal simple.

Key Reminders

• Itching is mechanical, not chemical caused by fibers touching skin.
• No toxic chemicals or flame retardants are added.
• Avoid heating above 350°F, which can break down binders and release gases (not typical in building construction).

Remember This!

The use of respirators is recommended when using this product when dust is likely, N95 respirators available to every employee. Please encourage your team to wear them, and reach out to your supervisor, your warehouse manager or a member of the safety team if you need more supplies on your job site. The full SDS for Mineral Wool is available to view on the LMS.