Is Gypsum Board Safe? Facts and Considerations
We are often asked, “Is gypsum board safe?” The answer is that it depends on the situation. Gypsum plasterboard has been shown to pose minimal risks in everyday use. People who live or work in structures made from gypsum board are unlikely to experience any adverse effects. On the other hand, gypsum miners or workers who are involved in the manufacture of gypsum-based products are at a relatively high risk of certain health consequences.
Gypsum is a naturally occurring, crystalline mineral. For the most part, it is entirely harmless to human beings. However, there are risks associated with the inhalation of gypsum dust. This is a risk that is faced on a daily basis by those who mine gypsum or work with it as a raw material, but not so much by construction workers who install gypsum products, or people who spend even a considerable length of time in the finished structures. Gypsum dust contains silica, which is known to affect the respiratory and neurological systems.
Neurological, Respiratory and Systemic Symptoms of Gypsum Board Side Effects
Workers in gypsum-related industries have reported a variety of mild to moderate neurological complaints. These include finger dysfunction, joint pain and muscular numbness. However, these appear to be attributable to the prolonged use of vibrating machinery rather than gypsum itself.
Gypsum dust has been found to be the cause of respiratory disorders. People who are exposed to gypsum dust often have limited respiratory capacity, which can be exacerbated by smoking and other factors.
Is Gypsum Hazardous Waste? Understanding the Risks
On the whole, gypsum is considered safe for landfills and other waste disposal methods. Concerns have been raised about the radioactive isotopes often found in gypsum – namely radium-226 and thorium-228. However, these are found in trace amounts which do not pose any risk. The levels of these isotopes have been found to be well below hazardous thresholds.
The biggest risk comes from the inhalation of gypsum dust, as mentioned above, so safe disposal methods are essential. However, gypsum is highly recyclable, so it is far better and safer to put discarded gypsum products to good use in the manufacture of new products.
Is Gypsum Board Heat Resistant? Key Insights and Applications
Gypsum board is highly heat resistant. Its chemical composition includes chemically bound water. When it is exposed to high temperatures, these water molecules are released as steam, slowing down heat transfer and acting as a fire resistance barrier. This is why gypsum drywall is commonly used for fire-rated construction.
Gypsum Board Fire Resistance Rating: What You Need To Know
The fire-resistant properties of gypsum drywall are among its most important benefits. Gypsum is non-combustible and flame-retardent, making it a vital component of safety features for homes and commercial buildings. Gypsum drywall can have a fire-resistance rating of between one and four hours, depending on the exact composition of the product used. This means that a gypsum wall can withstand open flame for anywhere between one and four hours.
Is gypsum board safe? Despite certain health hazards associated with the mining of gypsum, drywall and other construction materials made from this natural substance are very safe for human contact and habitation. They even make spaces safer by being highly resistant to heat and flames. Mada Gypsum manufactures a variety of construction solutions, including gypsum plasterboard, finishing materials, tiles, metal profiles, and accessories. If you are looking for safe, high-quality construction materials, be sure to consider our solutions. Contact us for more information.