What are composite-material hazards?

• A. Cutting or burning composites can create dust, smoke, and fibers that irritate skin and create respiratory hazards.
• B. Cutting composites releases only water vapor.
• C. Composites are non-reactive with heat.
• D. Composites emit pleasant smells when cut.

Answer: (B)

Composite-material hazards come from both the fibers in the material and the resin or matrix that binds them. When you cut or abrade composites, you generate respirable dust containing glass or carbon fibers and resin particles that can irritate the skin, eyes, and lungs. If the material is burned or heated, the resin and additives break down and release smoke and potentially toxic gases, creating inhalation and chemical exposure risks. Water vapor isn’t the main hazard here, and heating composites can produce harmful decomposition products rather than any pleasant odor. In practice, this means using appropriate respiratory protection, eye and skin protection, and proper ventilation or containment when working with or near cut or burned composites.