Investigation of health hazards of using Epoxy resins in the manufacturing of GRP (Glass reinforced plastic) boats.

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STUDY OUTLINE AND PLAN

Introduction

Glass reinforced plastic (GRP) is composed of tough resilient plastic which is durable. The use of resins and glass fibres creates a compound bearing immense strength. The epoxy resin is a thick substance which when used with the right catalyst forms into a hard yet brittle solid. When epoxy is reinforced with glass fibres it forms an extremely versatile and strong material (ECFS, 2012). The aim of this study is to understand the adverse effects created in the manufacturing of GRP boats using epoxy. The central area of focus is the excessive heat emitted during the manufacturing. Excessive heat has the tendency of endangering those who are surrounding the area. GRP was first used as a marine material after the Second World War. Ever since the usage and the quality has been improved significantly. Apart from marine usage GRP was recognized useful for commercial boats as well. The advantages of using GRP vessels in terms of other materials based on the fact they are more resistant. GRP does not corrode or rot which makes it easier for such vessels to remain exposed to salt water for longer durations. Their weight is also considerably light and lastly they are extremely strong which not only makes them effective but also adds to their efficiency. These factors have lead to an increase in their demand. The manufacturing of various products including GRP is facilitated by the use of motors. Motors are multipurpose and are used for various purposes. They vary in specification depending upon the usage. Paper production industry uses huge motors for crushing and rolling purposes. Motors continuously work under excessive stress which means that enormous amount of heat is generated which is required to be dissipated to adjacent environment for continuous working of the motors. The heat produced can cause damage to motors by burning windings, shorting circuits and melting the insulation. It is also a potential threat to the workers present on the running system who might be exposed to higher temperatures resulting in adverse health conditions. In certain circumstances such as fault conditions or accidents the situation can be fatal hence the defined problem needs to be addressed properly and requires immediate action to meet the industrial standards.

Aims and Objectives

The primary aim and subsequent objectives which this research study will focus on are as follows:

Aim

Investigate the different cooling systems which can be incorporated into the industry to counter the excessive temperatures

Objectives

To identify the flaws in the present practices followed by industries manufacturing GRP.

Determining a possible cooling technique that is incompliance with current health and safety regulations.

Discover a system capable of dissipating excessive heat.

Establish potential literature for future researchers.

Briefly highlight other possible health hazards associated with the manufacturing of GRP.

Suggest an alternative external cooling technique, which would operate automatically through regulators and would not require employees to stand by.

Evaluating personnel safety in these industries.

Providing evidence that the use of regulators ...