Spraying Paint

Objective:

To observe the needed safety precautions when spray painting.

Trainer's Note:

Discuss the importance of wearing a face respirator while spraying paint. Ask an experienced worker to demonstrate the proper way to adjust the respirator. For more information on personal protective clothing or respirators refer to (Tailgate Training Module - Respirator Fit Test).

Background

Take the following precautions when spraying paint, lacquer, varnish, or other like coatings.

Spraying paint in a specially constructed and ventilated booth or in the open air protects workers from hazardous fumes and reduces the chance of a fire or explosion. Ventilate spray booths so that fresh air moves from the worker to the exhaust outlet. The linear air movement in a small booth must be at least 100 feet per minute; in larger booths the rate is at least 150 linear feet per minute. This is the standard ventilation rate. Monitor the movement with gauges. Wear an appropriate face respirator. In some cases, a respirator helmet fed by an air line may have to be worn.

Commonly Overlooked Safety Precautions:

• Heat sources combined with paint can be very dangerous because heat can increase the likelihood of fumes and vapors.
• Do not use electrical extension cords in or around spray booths.
• Remove or repair any object that could produce a spark in the painting area. Cover exposed light bulbs.
• Wear protective clothing.
• Wash thoroughly after each painting session.

Review the Following Points

• Use ventilated booths if available, if not paint in open spaces.
• Wear proper protective clothing.
• Use a respirator face mask.
• Do not use any electric cords in or near the paint booth.

Spraying Paint Quiz

True or False

1. Avoid sparks or electric arcs in or around paint spray booths.	T	F
2. Use a spray booth if available, if not spray in open well ventilated areas.	T	F
3. In some cases, a respirator helmet fed by an air line should be worn.	T	F
4. Wear protective clothing while spraying paint.	T	F
5. There is no need to worry about heat when spray painting because it poses no danger.	T	F

Answer Key
1. T, 2. T, 3. T, 4. T, 5. F

---