SAFETY BULLETIN # 042

HAZARDS IN SPRAY PAINTING

The vapor evolved during the spraying of flammable liquids may present a serious fire
and health hazard unless the process is controlled. Some finishes, particularly lacquers,
may contain up to 80% of volatile solvent which must be removed to allow drying to take
place. If the vapors of certain solvents are allowed to accumulate even in concentrations
as low as 200 PPM, a toxic hazard may be created. If the concentration is increased to
about 10,000 PPM (the lower flammable limit for a number of common solvents) a fire or
even an explosion may occur if the vapor and air mixture is ignited.
Serious health hazards are associated with the spraying of two-pack polyurethane paints
and lacquers in which one component (commonly referred to as the "hardener" or
"catalyst") contains an isocyanate pre-polymer together with (usually) small amounts of
free monomeric socyanate. They can present a serious inhalation hazard, not only from
isocynate vapors, but also from the possibility of inhaling finely-dispersed aerosol mist
droplets containing active isocyanate.
when such two-pack systems are being sprayed, the sprayers and other persons in the
vicinity should wear positive pressure air-fed respiratory equipment.
The spraying of epoxy-based paints and undercoats can present a skin-contact hazard
leading to irritation and rash, and suitable protective clothing should be worn to prevent
contact with spray mist. Outbreaks of skin-irritation have occurred at areas remote from
the actual spraying, due to drift of the mist produced. Standards of enclosure and
ventilation should be provided to inhibit this.
Guidance note EH9 H&S exec.

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