Acoutsical Treatment

[whoriental]

How do you know what you need? Do I need difussers, bass traps, etc? Is there a program I can test my room with. I have seen people post there tests on here of before and afters but what program can I use for my mac? Please let me know becuase I am really confused.

Also, is it worth buying stuff pre-made or should I just make my own stuff? If I make my own stuff where would be the best place to go to start find information?

[whoriental]

Hey thanks alot, I will upload those pics by tomorrow.

[Glenn Kuras]

Originally Posted by whoriental

How do you know what you need? Do I need difussers, bass traps, etc? Is there a program I can test my room with. I have seen people post there tests on here of before and afters but what program can I use for my mac? Please let me know becuase I am really confused.

Also, is it worth buying stuff pre-made or should I just make my own stuff? If I make my own stuff where would be the best place to go to start find information?

It really depends what the room (and the size) is for as to which product to use. For control rooms you can use diffusers on the back wall if the length of the room is large enough. Most are not so most people use absorbtion on back wall.
Why not list your room size and what the room is for and lets see what we can ALL come up with. Trust me there is not "one size fits all" solution for most rooms. All rooms do need bass control but once again you can not just say 8 or 10 without knowing the size.

Glenn

[gjuodenas]

Here is a link to some generic drawings with a lot of detail taken out so you can get a general idea of what I do when approaching a control room. This generic approach has been proven to work in quite a few studios in the southeast US with a higher concentration in Nashville, both project and commercial rooms. I hope this helps you somewhat.

http://www.srlaudio.com/acoustic_ima...eeterville.pdf
Link is now correct

[Glenn Kuras]

Originally Posted by gjuodenas

Here is a link to some generic drawings with a lot of detail taken out so you can get a general idea of what I do when approaching a control room. This generic approach has been proven to work in quite a few studios in the southeast US with a higher concentration in Nashville, both project and commercial rooms. I hope this helps you somewhat.http://www.srlaudio.com/acoustic_ima...eeterville.pdf

www.srlaudio.com/acous...eeterville.pdf

Link was wrong, this works though!!!!!!

Glenn

[gjuodenas]

Thanks Glenn for the link correction

[Third Story]

you can also use some OC703 and some wood and frame it and cover it with cloth and there you go you can get it at home depot!see you in class!

[gjuodenas]

Oh yeah 703 or 705 covered in acoustical fabric. I got into a forum recently where the health risks of this solution were discussed. Lots of people worried about glass fibers getting into the air. Even gently handling these panels, creates a lot of fiberglass dust in the air. The manufacturers are currently required to post a warning label about health risks such as cancer on the product, there is a change in the warning being considered but has not been put into law. The cancer institute heavily recommends that no exposed fiberglass be installed in a living space, some people are especially sensitive to the glass fibers being in their nasal passages, throats and or lungs. If the acoustical fabric is not porous, the panel will not be a broadband absorber. Here in lies the quandry.

[Glenn Kuras]

Originally Posted by Third Story

you can also use some OC703 and some wood and frame it and cover it with cloth and there you go you can get it at home depot!see you in class!

OC703 at home depot??? I and about 100 other people WISH!!
For OC products check out SPI.

Glenn

[Glenn Kuras]

Originally Posted by gjuodenas

Oh yeah 703 or 705 covered in acoustical fabric. I got into a forum recently where the health risks of this solution were discussed. Lots of people worried about glass fibers getting into the air. Even gently handling these panels, creates a lot of fiberglass dust in the air. The manufacturers are currently required to post a warning label about health risks such as cancer on the product, there is a change in the warning being considered but has not been put into law. The cancer institute heavily recommends that no exposed fiberglass be installed in a living space, some people are especially sensitive to the glass fibers being in their nasal passages, throats and or lungs. If the acoustical fabric is not porous, the panel will not be a broadband absorber. Here in lies the quandry.

Not sure where you are getting your info, but you may want to read this through.

http://www.recording.org/ftopict-21013.html

Glenn

[Joel DuBay]

Originally Posted by gjuodenas

Oh yeah 703 or 705 covered in acoustical fabric. I got into a forum recently where the health risks of this solution were discussed. Lots of people worried about glass fibers getting into the air. Even gently handling these panels, creates a lot of fiberglass dust in the air. The manufacturers are currently required to post a warning label about health risks such as cancer on the product, there is a change in the warning being considered but has not been put into law. The cancer institute heavily recommends that no exposed fiberglass be installed in a living space, some people are especially sensitive to the glass fibers being in their nasal passages, throats and or lungs. If the acoustical fabric is not porous, the panel will not be a broadband absorber. Here in lies the quandry.

Great info? Not so sure..... However, if the claim above were entirely true (in terms of cancer specifically), these companies (Owens Corning, CertainTeed, John Mansville, RockWool, Roxul, etc, ) would have been sued and compensatory damages awarded. So far, I have been unable to find such, and have not made a simple, cursory search for information on this. Our research on this matter has been next to exhaustive.

Our company handles these materials everyday, and rock wool aside, minimal irritation has been noticed. Now, of course handling any loose/ fibrous material like Rock Wool or mineral fiber should be accompanied by commence protective measures. A pair of gloves and a light duty mask (the kind you find at any hardware store with a white face and yellow or blue rubber bands) are good starters. Mineral wool and other fibrous materials are known to irritate asthmatics, but so far, no study we have found has proven that cancer is a byproduct of handling either.

I have been asking for a conclusive health study from the FDA and we well as OSHA and other organizations for eons in an effort to develop an MSDS (if neccessary), and no one can produce such.

Rumors are bad things. Facts are good things.

Let common sense be your guide.

~ Joel DuBay


FREE 3D Room Acoustics Rendering with a qualified purchase
www.readyacoustics.com

[gjuodenas]

I have stirred up a hornet's nest on the question of fiberglass health risk. The following is a page on the American Lung Association's web page about the safety of fiberglass. As I have stated, OSHA requires a health risk warning label on fiberglass because of cancer concerns. As I also stated some research during the last 15 years indicates the health risk may be overstated but as of yet the OSHA rule has not been changed. I spend a lot of time in studios and this topic is a personal concern of mine. Also, how about all of those cloth covered panels in the office environment? Here is the info from the American Lung Association so everyone can make their own judgement. I have bolded some statements I feel require attention. By the way, porous acoustical cloth is not a suitable covering to prevent migration of fiberglass particles.

What is Fiberglass

Fiberglass is a man-made product that is composed of natural ingredients such as sand and recycled products such as window glass and bottles. The ingredients are melted and spun to create small strands of fiberglass that together form "glass wool".

Fiberglass insulation has been used since the 1930s and is now the most widely used home insulator. As an energy saver, fiberglass insulation saves the consumer money and helps keep buildings warm in winter and cool in the summer. Insulation saves energy and reduces the demand for new power plants, which reduces emissions of air pollutants to the environment and helps prevent global warming. To maximize energy efficiency, it is important to reduce air leaks that may occur around any areas in your home that are not sealed. These may include windows; doors; fireplaces; heating, ventilation and air conditioning ductwork; and perimeter joints. Leaks can be controlled with the use of housewrap, caulking and sealing of areas with leaks.

Fiberglass insulation also helps control noise in buildings, cars, and appliances. Fiberglass insulation is commonly used in furnaces and duct systems that deliver air to occupied buildings and homes and effectively minimizes transmission of noise.

Is Fiberglass Insulation Safe?

Yes, fiberglass building insulation is safe when it is properly installed.

Direct contact with fiberglass materials or exposure to airborne fiberglass dust may irritate the skin, eyes, nose and throat. Fiberglass can cause itching due to mechanical irritation from the fibers. This is not an allergic reaction to the material. Breathing fibers may irritate the airways resulting in coughing and a scratchy throat. Some people are sensitive to the fibers, while others are not. Fiberglass insulation packages display cancer warning labels. These labels are required by the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) based on determinations made by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and the National Toxicology Program (NTP).

* 1994- NTP listed fiberglass as "reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen" based on animal data.
* 1998- The American Conference of Govern- mental Industrial Hygienists reviewed the available literature and concluded glass wool to be "carcinogenic in experimental animals at a relatively high dose, by route(s) of administra- tion, at site(s), of histologic type(s) or by mechanism(s) that are not considered relevant to worker exposures".
* 1999- OSHA and the manufacturers volunta- rily agreed on ways to control workplace exposures to avoid irritation. As a result, OSHA has stated that it does not intend to regulate exposure to fiberglass insulation. The voluntary agreement, known as the Health & Safety Partnership Program includes a recom- mended exposure level of 1.0 fiber per cubic centimeter (f/cc) based on an 8-hour workday and provides comprehensive work practices.
* 2000- The National Academy of Sciences (NAS) reported that epidemiological studies of glass fiber manufacturing workers indicate "glass fibers do not appear to increase the risk of respiratory system cancer". The NAS supported the exposure limit of 1.0 f/cc that has been the industry recommendation since the early 1990s.
* 2001- The IARC working group revised their previous classification of glass wool being a possible carcinogen. It is currently considered not classifiable as a human carcinogen. Studies done in the past 15 years since the previous report was released, do not provide enough evidence to link this material to any cancer risk.

What Steps Can I Take to Reduce Exposure?

There are several ways you can minimize exposure to fiberglass material. Be sure to "work smart” when insta- lling fiberglass insulation in your home. Follow similar safety steps any time you remove fiberglass insulation or undertake a home improvement project that involves working with or around fiberglass insulation.

During installation follow the directions on the package as well as these safety steps:

Skin

* Wear loose-fitting, long-sleeved clothing and long pants.
* Do not tape sleeves or pants at wrists or ankles.
* Wear gloves.
* Do not scratch or rub your skin if fiberglass particles accumulate on your skin.
* When you finish, wash skin or shower with mild soap and warm, running water.

Eyes

* Wear safety glasses with side shields.
* Wear a hat.
* Do not rub your eyes while you are working with fiberglass. Be sure to complete clean up before rubbing your eyes or scratching your skin.

Nose, Mouth, and Throat

If you experience irritation of the nose, mouth, or throat you should consider wearing an "N 95" particulate respirator approved by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. If you are working in a dusty environ- ment, or are working with fiberglass insulation overhead, a disposable dust respirator may be a good idea. Be sure to read and follow the respirator manufacturer's instructions regarding selection and proper use of respirators. Most home improvement stores sell these types of disposable respirators.

Installation and Clean-Up

Follow these steps and be sure to read and follow manufacturer's instructions carefully.

* Keep your workspace clean.
* Do not handle fiberglass scrap more than necessary. Have a waste bin or plastic trash bag close by at all times.
* Use correct cutting tools such as a sharp utility knife and a straight edge.
* When cleaning your work area, be orga- nized in your approach so that you do not spread fibers back into an area you have cleaned previously.
* Make sure all installed insulation is never left exposed in an occupied area. If the insulation does not have any protective covering or facing, it may cause irritation to anyone coming into direct contact with the glass fibers. If the insulation has a paper or foil covering it presents a potential fire hazard.
* Change work clothes after you finish your fiberglass insulation project.
* Wash work clothes separately and wipe out washer after cycle is complete.
* As with any other building material the fiberglass insulation has to be clean and dry. If insulation is wet, it can become contaminated with mold.
* If a remodeling project involves removal of fiberglass insulation, follow the installa- tion safety steps listed above.

[gjuodenas]

I feel like I need to offer some solutions and not just raise a red flag about fiberglass health concerns.

Originally Posted by Joel DuBay

Our company handles these materials everyday, and rock wool aside, minimal irritation has been noticed. Now, of course handling any loose/ fibrous material like Rock Wool or mineral fiber should be accompanied by commence protective measures. A pair of gloves and a light duty mask (the kind you find at any hardware store with a white face and yellow or blue rubber bands) are good starters.

~ Joel DuBay


FREE 3D Room Acoustics Analysis
www.readyacoustics.com

FACT - I have handled a lot of fiberglass with protection but those nasty fibers still seem to find a way into my throat and onto my skin. It is not pleasant

FACT - There have been health concerns raised.

How about using an alternative product such as cotton batting that is now being offered. There is also cotton batting insulation for buildings now being sold. Also, how about all fiberglass and mineral wool acoustical panel manufacturers use filtering between the fiberglass and the cloth covering (a minor few are doing this). An industry usually fights change because it is easier to keep doing what you are doing. Change and product evolution costs money.

[Ethan Winer]

George,

> porous acoustical cloth is not a suitable covering to prevent migration of fiberglass particles. <

Well, it's a good thing the fabric my company uses is dense enough to prevent any particles from escaping, while still being soft and absorbent enough on its own to not reduce absorption!

Seriously, even exposed fiberglass is not a health risk unless you bang on it with a broom stick. It's not like radiation poisoning you'd get just from being near it!

--Ethan

[gjuodenas]

Originally Posted by Ethan Winer

George,


Seriously, even exposed fiberglass is not a health risk unless you bang on it with a broom stick. It's not like radiation poisoning you'd get just from being near it!

--Ethan

Ethan,

You are right that after the fiberglass dust cloud settles that is caused by the movement during initial install the fiberglass will "settle" down unless it undergoes physical movement. How about the room pressure differential caused by opening and closing doors or how about a high level 30 to 60 hz sound which causes everything else in the room to vibrate. This is a forum for discussion and I am only putting out some topics that I feel need some discussion. You accused Joel for cheap shots but you yourself are not above sarcastic barbs.

But seriously, I am all for putting in as much bass trapping as your physical size allows. As I have seen you comment before, you have to take care of a room's bass response before you do anything else. I commend you for promoting quality acoustics, the private and public acoustical environments we live with can certainly use acoustical upgrading.

[gjuodenas]

Amen, thank you for summing it up so well.

[Acoustic Cloud]

Ok guys, listen. This stuff needs to be contained as well as possible, thats a given. I have a contractors license....C-15 flooring contractor. I have been out of the trade for years, and have been teaching guitar full time for 13 years.(Gear addict for several) We had to deal with a lot of hazmat teams doing "pre production" if you want to call it, on locations.

Everyone is acting like this is asbestos, and its not..anywhere close. The smog here is probably worse than the shaking about of 703, compared to asbestos.

I have seen many projects and pics that people post on forums of their studio construction, and it is so cool to see those, but I keep thinking how old their houses are, and how much abundant asbestos is not only in insulation, but in the sheetrock itself!?!? There is alot.
This was the best, and still is the best flame ******ant fiber that has ever been, but also the most deadly to be exposed to. It was outlawed to use anymore in the 70's though.

When you start ganking into walls and ceilings of ANY building that is pre 1976 I think it is, you are putting yourself in so much more harms way from asbestos inhalation than years of closing a door with a bit of exposed 703 in a room. Also, any inhalation of these products is expungable, if thats the correct word... your body has no way to get rid of asbestos that has entered into it. It just stays there.

This ain't a rant, its truth...

[Joel DuBay]

Originally Posted by gjuodenas

I feel like I need to offer some solutions and not just raise a red flag about fiberglass health concerns.





FACT - I have handled a lot of fiberglass with protection but those nasty fibers still seem to find a way into my throat and onto my skin. It is not pleasant

FACT - There have been health concerns raised.

How about using an alternative product such as cotton batting that is now being offered. There is also cotton batting insulation for buildings now being sold. Also, how about all fiberglass and mineral wool acoustical panel manufacturers use filtering between the fiberglass and the cloth covering (a minor few are doing this). An industry usually fights change because it is easier to keep doing what you are doing. Change and product evolution costs money.

I believe cotton batting is a great alternative to mineral wool, and mineral fiber. The acoustical coefficients stated by the makers of such are impressive as well, and cotton as opposed to Rock Wool or mineral fiber may be a very good option for companies building pre-made acoustics treatments and for DIY'ers who would rather use such.

No argument there, or here.


~ Joel DuBay

[Joel DuBay]

Originally Posted by gjuodenas

I have stirred up a hornet's nest on the question of fiberglass health risk. The following is a page on the American Lung Association's web page about the safety of fiberglass. As I have stated, OSHA requires a health risk warning label on fiberglass because of cancer concerns. As I also stated some research during the last 15 years indicates the health risk may be overstated but as of yet the OSHA rule has not been changed. I spend a lot of time in studios and this topic is a personal concern of mine. Also, how about all of those cloth covered panels in the office environment? Here is the info from the American Lung Association so everyone can make their own judgement. I have bolded some statements I feel require attention. By the way, porous acoustical cloth is not a suitable covering to prevent migration of fiberglass particles.

What is Fiberglass

Fiberglass is a man-made product that is composed of natural ingredients such as sand and recycled products such as window glass and bottles. The ingredients are melted and spun to create small strands of fiberglass that together form "glass wool".

Fiberglass insulation has been used since the 1930s and is now the most widely used home insulator. As an energy saver, fiberglass insulation saves the consumer money and helps keep buildings warm in winter and cool in the summer. Insulation saves energy and reduces the demand for new power plants, which reduces emissions of air pollutants to the environment and helps prevent global warming. To maximize energy efficiency, it is important to reduce air leaks that may occur around any areas in your home that are not sealed. These may include windows; doors; fireplaces; heating, ventilation and air conditioning ductwork; and perimeter joints. Leaks can be controlled with the use of housewrap, caulking and sealing of areas with leaks.

Fiberglass insulation also helps control noise in buildings, cars, and appliances. Fiberglass insulation is commonly used in furnaces and duct systems that deliver air to occupied buildings and homes and effectively minimizes transmission of noise.

Is Fiberglass Insulation Safe?

Yes, fiberglass building insulation is safe when it is properly installed.

Direct contact with fiberglass materials or exposure to airborne fiberglass dust may irritate the skin, eyes, nose and throat. Fiberglass can cause itching due to mechanical irritation from the fibers. This is not an allergic reaction to the material. Breathing fibers may irritate the airways resulting in coughing and a scratchy throat. Some people are sensitive to the fibers, while others are not. Fiberglass insulation packages display cancer warning labels. These labels are required by the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) based on determinations made by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and the National Toxicology Program (NTP).

* 1994- NTP listed fiberglass as "reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen" based on animal data.
* 1998- The American Conference of Govern- mental Industrial Hygienists reviewed the available literature and concluded glass wool to be "carcinogenic in experimental animals at a relatively high dose, by route(s) of administra- tion, at site(s), of histologic type(s) or by mechanism(s) that are not considered relevant to worker exposures".
* 1999- OSHA and the manufacturers volunta- rily agreed on ways to control workplace exposures to avoid irritation. As a result, OSHA has stated that it does not intend to regulate exposure to fiberglass insulation. The voluntary agreement, known as the Health & Safety Partnership Program includes a recom- mended exposure level of 1.0 fiber per cubic centimeter (f/cc) based on an 8-hour workday and provides comprehensive work practices.
* 2000- The National Academy of Sciences (NAS) reported that epidemiological studies of glass fiber manufacturing workers indicate "glass fibers do not appear to increase the risk of respiratory system cancer". The NAS supported the exposure limit of 1.0 f/cc that has been the industry recommendation since the early 1990s.
* 2001- The IARC working group revised their previous classification of glass wool being a possible carcinogen. It is currently considered not classifiable as a human carcinogen. Studies done in the past 15 years since the previous report was released, do not provide enough evidence to link this material to any cancer risk.

What Steps Can I Take to Reduce Exposure?

There are several ways you can minimize exposure to fiberglass material. Be sure to "work smart” when insta- lling fiberglass insulation in your home. Follow similar safety steps any time you remove fiberglass insulation or undertake a home improvement project that involves working with or around fiberglass insulation.

During installation follow the directions on the package as well as these safety steps:

Skin

* Wear loose-fitting, long-sleeved clothing and long pants.
* Do not tape sleeves or pants at wrists or ankles.
* Wear gloves.
* Do not scratch or rub your skin if fiberglass particles accumulate on your skin.
* When you finish, wash skin or shower with mild soap and warm, running water.

Eyes

* Wear safety glasses with side shields.
* Wear a hat.
* Do not rub your eyes while you are working with fiberglass. Be sure to complete clean up before rubbing your eyes or scratching your skin.

Nose, Mouth, and Throat

If you experience irritation of the nose, mouth, or throat you should consider wearing an "N 95" particulate respirator approved by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. If you are working in a dusty environ- ment, or are working with fiberglass insulation overhead, a disposable dust respirator may be a good idea. Be sure to read and follow the respirator manufacturer's instructions regarding selection and proper use of respirators. Most home improvement stores sell these types of disposable respirators.

Installation and Clean-Up

Follow these steps and be sure to read and follow manufacturer's instructions carefully.

* Keep your workspace clean.
* Do not handle fiberglass scrap more than necessary. Have a waste bin or plastic trash bag close by at all times.
* Use correct cutting tools such as a sharp utility knife and a straight edge.
* When cleaning your work area, be orga- nized in your approach so that you do not spread fibers back into an area you have cleaned previously.
* Make sure all installed insulation is never left exposed in an occupied area. If the insulation does not have any protective covering or facing, it may cause irritation to anyone coming into direct contact with the glass fibers. If the insulation has a paper or foil covering it presents a potential fire hazard.
* Change work clothes after you finish your fiberglass insulation project.
* Wash work clothes separately and wipe out washer after cycle is complete.
* As with any other building material the fiberglass insulation has to be clean and dry. If insulation is wet, it can become contaminated with mold.
* If a remodeling project involves removal of fiberglass insulation, follow the installa- tion safety steps listed above.

GREAT POST.

This is very important information that can and should be considered by acoustic absorption device manufacturers as well as the DIY acoustics community.

However, I have still NOT seen a study as I mentioned above that has as central arguments, proof that these substances CAUSE cancer in humans, let alone well protected workers. And though I read the reprinted info you mentioned above with great care, the word "may" seems to have replaced the more important and operative word "DOES".

If there is proof that OC705 caused cancer, Ethan Weiner would SURELY not allow these materials to be part of his products, nor would I. With proof that the aformentioned caused such, both of us would be out of business or looking for suitable acoustic medium replacements and suspend operations all together until a prven replacement were found. I would not endanger my workers to the percentage certainty that these mediums caused cancer.

Now, this may be the only opportunity where I might speak with a unanimous voice for the acoustics companies involved in this thread, but RealTraps, GIK and Ready Acoustics LLC would not use materials that are proven to cause cancer in humans.

I welcome both other companies to chime in and state the same, though it may not be neccessary.


Sincerely,


~ Joel DuBay

[jowillie]

Cotton Batting??
How is the sound deadening compared to other choices?

You mean this stuff:
http://http://www.soundprooffoam.com/quiet-batt-insulation.html

[gjuodenas]

Originally Posted by jowillie

Cotton Batting??
How is the sound deadening compared to other choices?

You mean this stuff:
http://http://www.soundprooffoam.com/quiet-batt-insulation.html

Getting back to the topics at hand!
Here are some other links to check out regarding cotton. Quiet Batt that you have a link to is a leading supplier of cotton batting you can use for acoustical panels.


http://www.rubbermill.com/fibramat.html
http://www.insultechnology.com/cotto...FREdSwod9yT5HA
http://www.ecoproducts.com/Building/...insulation.htm
http://www.bondedlogic.com/ultratouch.htm
http://www.builditgreen.org/resource...detail&rowid=9

[Acoustic Cloud]

MAN!!

Im making a cloud today, and Glenn hasnt called me back!!

GLENN!! HELP!!!

[Glenn Kuras]

Originally Posted by Acoustic Cloud

MAN!!

Im making a cloud today, and Glenn hasnt called me back!!

GLENN!! HELP!!!

I have not been in the office today. Did you call me today? Email me your number and I will call you back. I know I know taking a Saturday off!!

Glenn

[Scott R. Foster]

An informative discourse on fiberglass can be found here:

http://www.recording.org/ftopict-21013.html

[Acoustic Cloud]

Glenn JUST CALLED ME BACK!!!

THANKS MAN! I LOVE YOU!!

[Glenn Kuras]

Originally Posted by Acoustic Cloud

Glenn JUST CALLED ME BACK!!!

THANKS MAN! I LOVE YOU!!

Well that was post number 666 from you so not sure if it was a good thing or BAD thing .
Lets keep the love thing between you and I (not that there is anything wrong with it )

Glenn

[DrDeltaM]

This thread was splitted to keep this original discussion on topic.

The off topic discussion can be found in this split thread: http://gearslutz.com/board/showthread.php?t=89798

[gjuodenas]

If anyone is interested, there is a movement in the construction and renovation industries to create "green" buildings. There is a certification called LEED that has been developed. There are a lot of building products that give off fumes that affect allergic people. Doctor's are seeing more people with allergies. It has been suggested that continued exposure in enclosed spaces where the building materials and cleaning products give off fumes is one of the reasons for a spike in allergies. There are LEED certified buildings being built. Many of these are using cotton batts as insulation. I am suggesting that companies making acoustical panels take a serious look at these products. Or if they continue to use fiberglass, choose fiberglass that uses resin binders instead of formaldehyde. The companies that make fiberglass are large companies. They can't tolerate even a shred of evidence that their products create health issues. The potential for lawsuits is huge. Remember asbestos.

http://www.usgbc.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CategoryID=19

Here is a quote from a green building guide.

INSULATION

Considerations:

Insulation helps to protect people inside a building from heat, cold, and noise, and conserves energy. Environmentally preferable insulation options offer additional benefits, such as reduced waste and pollution in manufacture and installation, more efficient resource use, recyclability, enhanced R-value, and reduced or eliminated health risks for installers and occupants. Well-insulated envelopes are cornerstones of sustainable buildings, so consider the following regardless of insulation type:

Insulate as thoroughly as possible to increase comfort, reduce the risk of mold, and save both energy and money for the life of the building. Seek insulation that is free of formaldehyde, including the urea formaldehyde binders commonly used in fiberglass batts. Formaldehyde in the wall cavity is a secondary concern to formaldehyde emitted directly indoors by pressboard furniture and finishes, but the risk of exposure to this carcinogen is unnecessary. The comfort and energy efficiency of your home depend on the R-value of the entire wall, roof, or floor (i.e. “Whole-Wall R-value”), not just the R-value of the insulation. For example, the Oak Ridge National Laboratory has found the whole-wall R-value of 2x6 wood frame walls with R-19 fiberglass batts and paper facer fastened to the inside surface of each stud to be only R-11. Techniques such as Advanced Framing (covered in the structural section of this guide) increase the wall area covered by insulation, increasing whole-wall effectiveness.

Framing conducts far more heat than insulation, much as most window frames conduct more heat than double-paned glass. An additional layer of rigid insulation between framing and sheathing (or insulating sheathing) helps improve whole-wall R-value by insulating the entire wall, not just clear space. In non-“breathable” wall designs, closed-cell rigid foam with taped seams can provide an effective vapor barrier.

Consider alternatives to fiberglass, such as recycled cotton or cellulose (recycled newspaper treated with borate for insect and fire resistance.) Both reduce waste, require one-quarter to one-tenth the energy to produce, and are far less irritating to installer’s skin and mucus membranes. See insets for information on several specific types of insulation.

Sprayed polyurethane foams expand to fill cracks, providing both insulation and a vapor barrier. (Sprayed cementitious foams such as Air-Krete have somewhat similar properties.)

If you use fiberglass, use recycled-content products, which save resources and landfill space.
Summary: Insulation

Like all glass products, fiberglass insulation is made primarily from silica heated to high temperatures, requiring significant energy and releasing formaldehyde. Public health threats from glass fibers are well documented, and short term effects include irritation to eyes, nose, throat, lungs, and skin during installation or other contact. Longer term effects are controversial, but OSHA requires fiberglass insulation to carry a cancer warning label. Binders in most fiberglass batts contain toxic formaldehyde that is slowly emitted for months or years after installation, potentially contaminating indoor air.

There are greener options. Recycled cotton insulation insulates as well as fiberglass and offers superior noise reduction. Cotton insulation poses no lung cancer risk and is not irritating during installation. Cellulose insulation also poses no risk of lung disease and offers superior R-value per inch. Both cotton and cellulose are treated with borate, which is not toxic to humans, and makes both materials more resistant to fire and insects than fiberglass.

Finally, recycled-content fiberglass insulation is becoming increasingly available (ask for minimum 25% post-consumer recycled content and minimum 50% total recycled content). Some products are designed with heavier, intertwined glass fibers to reduce airborne fibers and reduce the fraction of fibers that can enter the lungs. Cutting batts to size can limit these benefits, however.

[bpape]

The link Scott provided has a good excerpt pretty well summarizing the current situation. While fiberglass can certainly be irritation, it is not defined as cancer causing.

Bryan

[breiflabb]

I worked in a plastics factory, manufacturing boats and industrial components from fiberglass. The truth is, you can EAT fiberglass, it wont kill you, but it itches like hell!!!