Spray painting is used in a variety of industries and by a variety of workers. It is used to paint motor vehicles, buildings (inside and outside), structures, furniture, white goods, boats, ships, aircraft and machinery.

Spray painters are in contact with a large number of chemicals which can affect the body by inhalation or direct skin contact.
Spray painting is associated with a number of health and safety concerns, so employers and self employed people who conduct this activity must manage the risks in their workplaces. Workcover requests compulsory statutory exams. WorkSafe Medics perform these exams at your premises and also provides Workcover with the necessary paper work formalities and authorities. Contact us for more information.

HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES IN SPRAY PAINTING

Carcinogens : Beryllium, Chromium VI, acrylonitrile, formaldehyde and some mineral oils.

Toxins: lead and solvents (such as benzene, n-hexane, epichlorohydrin, methyl butyl ketone, methelene chloride, carbon sulphide, carbon tetrachloride). It has been suggested that chronic exposure to paints and solvents may lead to 'Painter's Syndrome' after a 1970s Scandinavian study suggested chronic paint exposure led to changes in brain function and poorer learning. This has not been confirmed by other studies.
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Irritants (to eyes, skin and lungs): innumerable chemicals, including paints containing isocyanates.

Sensitising agents: formaldehyde, butyl acryl monomer, turpentine, and isocyanates