OHS Consultants | Safe Spray Painting For Workers

Safe Painting Locations

Spray painting should always be carried out within a properly constructed spray booth (unless impractical). The design, construction and testing of spray booths should be in accordance with Australian Standard AS 4114.1. The selection, installation and maintenance of spray booths are also addressed in Australian Standard AS 4114.2. Remember, construction of a spray booth may require approval from the relevant authority.

Where flammable materials are sprayed, the spray booth and appropriate adjacent areas should be designated as hazardous areas.

Personal Protective Equipment

Most paints contain chemicals that can be harmful when exposed directly to your skin, eyes, or lungs, so it’s important that workers wear proper protective gear. Personal protection equipment (PPE) needs to include respiratory, skin, and eye protection. Procedures should ensure the required PPE is worn at all times and is maintained in good working order, particularly regarding to the regular replacement of respiratory filters.

Housekeeping requirements should also apply to spray booths and adjacent storage areas.