Gorilla Glue is a polyurethane adhesive intended for wood, ceramics, stone, metal and other surfaces. It is popular for its strength and its waterproofing ability, but using it does not come without risks. Gorilla Glue is classified as harmful to inhale and irritating to the skin and eyes. The glue is also flammable and harmful to the environment, so you must follow common-sense safety measures when you're handling and disposing of it.
Handling and Contact
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Keep the Gorilla Glue container dry and tightly sealed until you're ready to use it. Ventilate your work area well. If you're going to spray the glue, you must use exhaust ventilation in your work area. Immediately remove clothes that have come into contact with Gorilla Glue, and wash areas of skin that have been exposed to the product with soap and water. You may also use a cleanser with a polyethylene glycol base to clean your skin. If you get Gorilla Glue in your eyes, flush them for at least 10 minutes with water while holding your eyelids open.
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Inhalation and Ingestion
If you inhale an excessive amount of Gorilla Glue vapor or spray mist, your breathing may become irregular or even stop. If you have difficulty breathing, step outside and get fresh air immediately. If you are with someone whose breathing has stopped, administer artificial respiration and seek medical assistance. People with asthma, chronic bronchitis or other respiratory problems should not work with Gorilla Glue. If Gorilla Glue gets into your mouth, rinse it with water. If you swallow Gorilla Glue, drink small quantities of water, remain still and seek medical help. Do not induce vomiting.
Fire-Fighting Measures
Gorilla Glue is flammable. Burning Gorilla Glue produces a dense, black smoke that contains potentially hazardous products, including carbon monoxide and traces of hydrogen cyanide. Use a carbon dioxide, dry powder, or foam extinguisher to put out the fire. In the case of a large fire, use large quantities of water, as the reaction between water and some burning components of Gorilla Glue can be vigorous. If you cannot quickly subdue the fire, call the fire department and be careful not to breathe the fumes. Do not allow runoff from the fire to enter water systems.
Cleanup
To clean up spilled Gorilla Glue, wear proper protective material, including thick, rubber safety gloves, chemical goggles or a face mask, shoes and a respiratory mask. Cover the spill area with a wet, absorbent material, like sand or vermiculite, and leave it for one hour. Then place the spill and absorbent material in a non-sealed container, store it in a well-ventilated area and dispose of it according to local regulations. Dispose of the clothes you wear during cleanup, and clean the spill area with a detergent, not a solvent. Call local authorities if a Gorilla Glue spill contaminates drains or waterways.