West System 18 Tyvek Sleeves (2 Pr/Bg) 8382

Protective sleeves are convenient when you need to cover your arms while working with epoxy. These 18″ sleeves have an elastic top and cuff. Pair them with our disposable gloves for extra protection. They’re made out of a microporous film laminate material that provides a superior combination of strength, barrier protection, and breathability.

838-2 Protective Sleeves,  2 pair

Protective Sleeves Help Prevent Fiberglass Irritation

Working with fiberglass fabrics can cause skin irritations ranging from minor itching to a serious rash. It’s caused by microscopic, needle-like fiberglass spindles of that prick your skin. Protective sleeves offer an added layer to prevent these glass fibers from irritating your skin, as well as protecting your bare arms or clothing from uncured epoxy. 

Beyond using these sleeves, you can use a vacuum to remove fiberglass dust, but the discomfort may persist if fiberglass shards are embedded in your skin. If you do get glass fibers on your skin, you can get relief by applying masking tape to the affected area, then gently pulling it off. Embedded fibers will come away with the tape. The relief is almost instant.

We have had satisfactory results using this method to remove fiberglass from between our fingers, the inner side of our arms and around our necks. However, you shouldn’t try this method on hairy areas, unless you are really desperate. You’re always better off wearing sleeves and gloves when working with fiberglass fabrics and tapes.

Another way to get relief is to wash the affected area with a high-quality hair conditioner. The conditioner seems to lubricate and smooth the fibers, making it easier to dislodge them from your skin. To prevent further irritation, be sure to thoroughly rinse the conditioner from the affected area.—Excerpted from Relief from Fiberglass Irritation by Tom Pawlak, Epoxyworks 7.