Health & Safety in Paint Spraying Applications
Hazardous vapours and fumes are released at various stages within paint spraying
applications. Whether this risk is noxious fumes such as polyisocyanates associated
with most paints and solvents or oil vapours from the compressor, effective
respiratory protection for the user is essential. Even particulate dusts from
grinding and sanding processes can be harmful to health. In most cases simple
orinasal, cartridge based filtering masks do not provide acceptable protection
for the user. Where the risk is serious an air fed respirator must be used.
Spray Painting Hazards
- Organic solvents
- Lacquers and paint removers
- Surface preparation products
- Resins
- Particulate dusts from sanding / grinding
- Chromium
- Polyisocyanates
- Oil vapour and particulate from the compressor
Health & Safety Legislation
Employers are obliged under COSHH regulations (Control of Substances Hazardous
to Health) to provide Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) in addition to
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) wherever there is the possibility of employees
or site visitors inhaling hazardous substances. Compressed air used for breathing
must comply with local legislation. In Europe the maximum levels of
contamination permissible are outlined in EN 12021 and recommendations for selection,
care and maintenance can be found in EN 529. It is essential that all items
of RPE are tested for compliance at suitable intervals not exceeding one month.
Only approved equipment should be used and employers must take advice from equipment
suppliers on correct use to prevent respiratory health problems.
Respiratory Health Problems
The inhalation of hazardous substances can cause serious health problems including:
- Asthma – attacks of coughing, wheezing and tightness of chest
- Rhinitis – nasal irritation
- Conjunctivitis – watery eyes
- Bronchitis – coughing and shortness of breath
- Respiratory Sensitisation – an irreversible allergic reaction
- Nervous disorders
- Reduced lung capacity
- Nausea and Disorientation
- Unconsciousness
Integrated solution
Parker domnick hunter has been supplying industry with air fed respiratory protection
equipment for more than 30 years and is a world leader in the filtration, purification
and separation of compressed air, gases and liquids. To assist employers complying
with current legislation, Parker domnick hunter offers a full range of respiratory
protection equipment from portable systems suitable for single person use to
full facility protection. The Parker domnick hunter RPE range filters compressed
air to remove harmful particulates, odours and fumes providing a safe working
environment. Full support and guidance on system design, product selection and
on site testing to EN 12021 is available to provide the most cost effective
solution for your application. Compliance with International Breathing Air standards
means you can be sure of a safe air supply that provides effective protection
from harmful substances and maintains employee health.
