Painting Hazards
Although painting may appear like a relatively risk-free endeavor, the truth is, it can cause serious bodily harm if the right precautions are not taken. One reason for this is that paint is made from chemicals which can be harmful to people. When it hits unprotected skin or eyes, it may cause severe irritation.
Headaches and respiration troubles may occur due to paint fumes. The flammable nature of paint products such as paint thinner and oil-based primers is very high. Proper handling is necessary to prevent the painter from accidental burns. Last but not least, ladders really are a common tool for both interior and outdoor paint jobs when working at heights. This presents a risk for individuals falling and being hurt.
DIFFERENT TYPES OF PAINTING AND RELATED RISKS
If you are about to attempt a painting project, you have to know about the risks linked to the type or types of painting you will be doing. Here is a succinct overview of the different types of painting and relevant risks:
Brush painting:
Brush painting is among the most basic kinds of painting. It is frequently used to paint wood for instance, window sills, door frames and various other woodwork. Utilizing a brush is widely used for painting walls and obtaining decorative paint styles. Paint splashes on exposed skin and in the eyes would be the most frequent issues with this type of painting. Because a lot of brush painting involves oil- or solvent-based paint, it may also cause headaches and breathing problems.
Roller application:
Roller application is often used for interior walls and ceilings. This may lead to paint splashing in the eyes and also on the skin. Having your arms elevated overhead for extended periods can cause muscle pulls or injuries from being in an unpleasant position. This is more predominant for people who paint for a profession and may lead to long-term damage over time. Adequate paint protection in the form of respiratory masks is critical to ensure lung wellbeing.
Spray painting frequently occurs for interior and exterior purposes. It is employed to complete large areas including ceilings, exteriors of buildings and lobbies. Paint particles could possibly land in your eyes if care isn't taken. Paint particles and fumes may additionally irritate their respiratory system. There are specific safety and health precautions and equipment needed which keeps this endeavor safe. Clothing protection, protective eye wear and respiratory masks will be required.
Painting at heights:
Any type of work that takes place above the ground requires extra caution. Merely falling off of a step ladder can result in disastrous results. People can accidentally fall to their death or significant injury if adequate safety precautions aren't taken. Painting at heights often takes advantage of scaffolding or wearing a safety harness. Painting clean-up and preparations also come with their own risks.
Wood surfaces typically require sanding ahead of painting. This can trigger scrapes on the hands as well as dust in the eyes and respiratory system. The harm aspect of the dust is determined by the items that are being sanded such as wood with old varnish or paint on it.Cleaning paint brushes and additional tools often require the application of paint thinner, depending on the type of paint used. Paint thinner is likewise very flammable and can lead to serious burns or easily catch on fire.
Painting PPE
Commit to the proper safety products for your next commercial or residential painting activity.
Gloves:
Wear gloves to help keep your skin and your hands safe. When you are sanding items, leather gloves really are a safe choice. For anyone who is working with paint thinner or solvent, invest in some solvent-resistant gloves. Select a pair of impermeable gloves to offer protection for water and oil-based paints.
Eyewear:
Protective goggles and even a face shield is very helpful for keeping your eyes safe while dealing with paint thinners and paint. It is particularly important when painting above your face or spray painting, along with when sanding.
Paint masks:
Wear a dust mask or particulate respirator whenever sanding. Protect yourself with a breathing mask as you are using a paintbrush or roller to avoid chemical inhalation. If you're painting outdoors, there is certainly adequate fresh air relating to the paint fumes. However, some individuals are operating in a location with bat or bird droppings which could be harmful.Implement a paint respirator for spray painting projects to keep your airways safe. Rely on a paint respirator to help keep your airways shielded while painting.
Coveralls and shoe covers:
Disposable cotton coveralls and shoe covers can save your shoes, your skin and your clothing from becoming irritated or blanketed in paint.
Hard hat:
If you will be working at elevations, a hard hat is a smart safety precaution, as it can help protect your head when you fall. Construction sites possess numerous equipment and products that can fall and strike your head accidentally.
Fall arrest:
A fall arrest solution can include a single carabiner or double carabiner that can be attached to a railing to help prevent you from falling. It often comes with a harness that straps around the torso and legs for added safety. Scaffolding can often be used to prevent fall injuries in a variety of situations.
Fire extinguisher:
Have a fire extinguisher on-site to ensure that you can act fast in case there is any fire attributed to flammable substances such as paint thinner.
