Growing rockwool
- Coarser fibres, more than 5 micrometres
- Not respirable, so too large to inhale
- Produced specifically for horticulture
- Suitable for daily use
Safety
Is rockwool harmful to the lungs?
A fair question for anyone working with rockwool. Here you find the facts about safety and health.
Paper Plug TraysEllepot FP 12+
The short answer
Horticultural rockwool is safe in normal use when you take basic precautions. The fibres are coarser than in insulation rockwool and too large to inhale deeply.
Growing rockwool and insulation rockwool
It is important to distinguish between the two types.
Insulation rockwool
- Finer fibres
- More dust when cutting
- More protection needed
- Different production process and application
Recommended precautions
- Wear gloves during intensive contact
- Use work clothing with long sleeves
- Wear a dust mask when cutting or processing
- Wash your hands after use
- Work in a well-ventilated area
- Keep the workspace clean
When to be extra careful
- When cutting or processing rockwool
- In dusty environments
- With sensitive skin or airways
- When processing large quantities
Symptoms of excessive exposure
These symptoms are mild and temporary.
- 1
Mild skin irritation, disappears after washing.
- 2
Itching from fibres on the skin.
- 3
Mild eye irritation during dusty work.
- 4
Throat irritation in extremely dusty conditions.
Serious health problems are very unlikely with normal use. Consult a doctor if symptoms persist.
Conclusion
Horticultural rockwool is safe to use when you take basic precautions. The fibres are too large to be inhaled. Wear protective clothing during intensive contact and you work safely.
Knowledge base
Further reading
Paper Plug Trays
Safe rockwool plugs
Our Paper Plug Trays are supplied as complete trays. Nothing to cut, and the plug goes into the ground with its paper sleeve.