Maybe you are a professional painter or a DIY weekend warrior, there are particular health risks it is vital to be aware of before you begin painting. Having the right safety equipment and knowledge can go a long way to keep you safe and enjoying the results.



HAZARDS IN PAINTING WORK

Even though painting may seem like a relatively risk-free endeavor, the fact remains, it can cause serious bodily harm when the right precautions are not taken. The paint compounds are harmful to the skin, respiratory system and eyes. Extreme irritation can occur when it lands on the skin or in your eyes.

Paint smells can also cause respiratory issues and headaches. Highly flammable paint thinner and oil primer are likewise very damaging. Without mindful handling, painters risk burns. Finally, exterior painting frequently requires working at heights, which places painters at risk of falling and injuring themselves.

Stay Safe No Matter Which Painting Method You Choose

Understanding the potential risks connected with your next paint job will help keep you safe. Here is a brief overview of the differing types of painting and relevant risks:

Brush painting:

One of the more common techniques to paint is with a paintbrush. This process is used for painting woodwork, door frames, window sills and home furnishings. It is also used for creative paint styles and is used for walls. Widespread risks with brush painting include things like having paint splash in your eyes and dealing with spills on the skin. Since this painting uses oil and solvent-based paint, it can certainly lead to headaches and breathing troubles if appropriate respiratory masks aren't implemented.

Roller application:

Using a paint roller is normal for getting to interior walls and painting ceilings. The key risks encompass having paint splash on your skin or even in your eyes. Having your arms elevated overhead for extended periods can result in muscle pulls or injuries from being in an uncomfortable position. Painting as a vocation may cause more injuries than a DIY’er upgrading their home. It is vital to stretch and take repeated breaks if you are an amateur or a professional. Paint rolling may also come with respiratory risks without the right ventilation or respiratory safety.

Spray painting is frequently used for large surfaces such as lobbies and exteriors of large structures. Painters run the risk of getting paint debris in their eyes. The respiratory system can be prone to fumes or paint particles. There are certain safety and health precautions and equipment needed to keep this endeavor safe. This typically includes protective eyewear, clothing and respiratory protection.



Painting at heights:

It is always hazardous to work above ground level. Painters can injure themselves seriously by simply falling off a stepladder! Security measures need to be obtained by those who work at heights to circumvent a life-threatening fall. This may involve scaffolding or safety harnesses. Painting pick up and preparations also come with their unique risks.

Oftentimes, timber surfaces must be sanded before they can be painted. This tends to generate dust that extends into the respiratory system and the eyes and scratches to the hands. The harm factor of the dust is dependent upon the items that are being sanded such as wood with old varnish or paint upon it.Cleaning paint brushes and additional tools often require the application of paint thinner, depending on the type of paint used. If this is in contact with an open flame or high heat source, it may catch fire and induce serious burns.

Safety Gear For Painting

To keep yourself safe during any residential or commercial painting project, you need the proper personal protective equipment (PPE):

Gloves:

Protect your hands by putting on gloves. Select leather gloves with regard to sanding and prepping tasks. Solvent-resistant gloves are important for handling paint thinner and other solvents. Impermeable gloves are ideal for water- and oil-based paint.

Eyewear:

Go with safety goggles or protective eye protection every time you are handling paint thinners and paint for max protection. It is vital when you are sanding or painting ceilings and areas overhead.

Paint masks:

Rely on a respirator or dust mask every time you are sanding and prepping items for paint. If you are very sensitive to chemicals, it's also wise to wear a respiratory mask whenever using a brush or roller. If you are painting outdoors, there exists adequate fresh air for the paint fumes. However, some individuals are operating in a location with bat or bird droppings which could be harmful.When you're spray painting, you're best advised to use a paint respirator, since this offers more protection for your airways.

Coveralls and shoe covers:

Disposable shoe covers and cotton overalls can safeguard your skin and your shoes and clothes from harmful and unhealthy paint products.

Hard hat:

Wearing a security hard hat is essential on any construction site, particularly when working at heights. It can save your life if you accidentally fall. Additionally, if you are engaged on a busy construction site, it'll protect your brain if an item falls on you.

Fall arrest:

A fall arrest solution can include a single carabiner or double carabiner that may be attached to a railing to help prevent you from falling. For additional safety, it generally has a harness that straps around the legs and the torso. Scaffolding could also be used in some situations to prevent accidents from falls.

Fire extinguisher:

Have a fire extinguisher on-site to ensure that you can act fast in case there is any fire caused by flammable substances such as paint thinner.