WASHINGTON – The American Chemical Council’s Center for the Polyurethanes Industry (CPI) has released its updated Safe Handling of Methylene Diphenyl Diisocycanate (MDI) and Toluene Diisocyanate (TDI) video series. These two training programs are designed to inform employers and employees of the potential hazards associated with transporting these materials and best practices to minimize potential risk.

“MDI and TDI are key building blocks used in some of our most useful products including building materials like insulation, roofing and coatings; comfort materials like mattresses, furniture and transportation seating; apparel and footwear; and as key components in composites and binders for many uses,” said Lee Salamone, Senior Director, CPI. “Shipments of these materials are often made via highway and rail, and this educational video series reinforces the industry’s commitment to fostering product health and safety.”

The original Safe Handling of MDI and TDI video series was created in the early 2000s and has been a valuable tool for manufacturers and users of these materials. Suitable for remote or in-person instruction, the program is used widely throughout the industry to train thousands of transportation workers and plant personnel across the country, serving as a key component of health and safety training in the polyurethanes industry.

The revised series contains updated regulatory information and offers best practice insight for drum or intermediate bulk container handling, as well as hook-up and transfer operations for unloading MDI and TDI from tank containers (isotainers), cargo tank trailers and rail tank cars. In addition, the video series features information on personal protective equipment, emergency response procedures, and proper disposal of waste.