Handling the reinforcement material

Reinforcement materials are often cut to fit a particular mould thereby releasing small sections of fibres that can be harmful if inhaled. In order to prevent this happening it is advisable to wear either a dust mask or a respirator. It is also good practice to have the work area cleaned regularly to reduce the amount of fibres present in the air. Reinforcement materials may also be irritating to the skin resulting in itching, a rash or both; therefore it is advisable to wear gloves and long sleeves to cover the skin.

Each fibre type may have specific requirements:

	Glass fibres
	carbon/graphite fibres
	Aramind fibres