What Are the Safety Precautions for Epoxy Flooring?

Epoxy flooring is widely known for its strength, durability, and sleek appearance—making it a top choice for industrial spaces like warehouses and factories across Malaysia. However, whether you're applying epoxy flooring or working around it, safety precautions are essential to ensure a smooth installation and long-lasting performance.

At SYH, we take safety seriously. Here's a breakdown of the key precautions that must be followed before, during, and after epoxy floor installation.

1. Ensure Proper Ventilation

Epoxy materials often contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), especially during the mixing and application process. Without proper ventilation, these fumes can pose respiratory risks.

Safety Tip:
Always ensure the workspace has adequate airflow. Use industrial fans and open ventilation points to help disperse fumes. Workers should wear approved respirators or masks when working in enclosed or poorly ventilated areas.

2. Use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Direct contact with epoxy resin and hardener can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions.

Safety Tip:
Installers should wear:

• Gloves (nitrile or chemical-resistant)

• Safety goggles

• Long-sleeved shirts and pants

• Safety boots

This protects against skin burns, splashes, and eye exposure during mixing and application.

3. Prepare the Surface Carefully

Improper surface preparation can lead to poor adhesion and uneven coating. Moreover, grinding or shot-blasting concrete surfaces generates dust and debris.

Safety Tip:
Use dust masks or respirators when grinding. Ensure all electrical tools are grounded and operators are trained in their use. Clean and dry the surface completely before applying epoxy.

4. Handle Chemicals with Caution

Epoxy kits usually include two parts: resin and hardener. When mixed, they create a chemical reaction that must be handled with care.

Safety Tip:

• Always read the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) provided by the manufacturer.

• Mix chemicals only in recommended ratios.

• Never mix more than you can apply within the working time (pot life).

5. Prevent Slips During and After Application

Before curing, epoxy is slippery and sticky. After curing, it can still be slippery—especially when wet—if an anti-slip additive isn't used.

Safety Tip:

• During application, restrict access to prevent people or equipment from stepping into wet epoxy.

• After curing, add anti-slip aggregates (e.g., silica sand or aluminum oxide) in areas prone to moisture or spills.

6. Avoid Fire Hazards

Some solvents used in cleaning or thinning epoxy can be flammable.

Safety Tip:
Keep all epoxy-related materials away from open flames, sparks, or heat sources. Store chemicals in a cool, dry area, and dispose of waste safely according to local regulations.

7. Follow Manufacturer’s Instructions

Every brand or type of epoxy flooring may have specific requirements.

Safety Tip:
At SYH, we only use certified, industrial-grade epoxy systems with clear technical documentation. Always follow the manufacturer’s curing times, temperature requirements, and application methods.

Why Safety Matters to SYH

At SYH, we don't just install epoxy flooring—we provide safe, professional, and long-lasting solutions for factories, warehouses, and industrial sites across Malaysia. Our trained teams follow strict safety protocols to protect both our workers and your property.

Need a Safer, Stronger Floor?

Looking for an epoxy flooring contractor that puts safety and quality first? Contact SYH today for a free consultation.

Visit our website SYH Supply Sdn Bhd