Legislation Explained

Health Hazards to Sprayers

 

WHY ARE PAINTS HAZARDOUS?

Paints are made from a wide range of chemical substances, e.g. pigments, solvents, driers, extenders, etc.  Some of these may be toxic but if suitable precautions are taken, paints can be used without risks to your health.

 

ARE YOU AT RISK WHEN SPRAYING?

The risk will depend on:

• The type of work, e.g. surface preparation or painting

• The hazards for the materials used, e.g. abrasives, filters, thinners, paints

• The location, e.g. in a confined space or outdoors

• The working conditions,e.g. temperature, humidity, ventilation

• The length of time and frequency of your exposure to the harmful substance or atmosphere

• The suitability and use of personal protective equipment, e.g. gloves, overalls, B/D equipment etc.

 

HOW ARE YOU EXPOSED?

The risks to health can come through lungs when breathing through skin or eyes by direct contact, or through mouth and digestive system by swallowing.

 

WHAT HEALTH PROBLEMS CAN OCCUR?

If proper precautions at work are not taken, the potential effects include irritation and diseases of the skin, eyes and lungs – there may also be a risk of generalised poisoning or cancer.

 

WHAT PRECAUTIONS CAN YOU TAKE?

In almost all spraying work, a combination of actions may be needed.

Information Training

• avoid handling or using materials or methods without knowing what hazards are associated with them.

• read the safety data sheet or container label and take the precautions which are set out.

• take a full and active part in safety training.

• use the safe working practices that have been taught.

Vapour

Minimise the exposure to paints, solvents or thinners by:

• using less harmful materials, e.g. water-based paints.

• making sure the method of use has been clearly explained.

• making full use of any spraybooth, enclosure, exhaust ventilation or dilution systems and automatic
  handling equipment.

• using a respirator with appropriate filter or air-fed equipment – make sure the face mask fits properly.

• employ an automatic fun cleaner and solvent reclaimer.

Dust Fumes

 Avoid breathing in harmful dust or fumes by:

• using any enclosure or local exhaust ventilation provided.

• using respirators with appropriate or air fed equipment.

Skin

Avoid skin contact and ingestion of chemicals by:

• using protective clothing and eye protection.

• using any barrier or protective conditions cream provided.

• Taking care with solvents when cleaning brushes, sprayguns etc.

 

WHAT DOES THE LAW REQUIRE?

Employers have a responsibility to protect employees from exposure to substances harmful to their health under Section 2 of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 (HSW Act) and from the 1^st October 1989 under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 1988.

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