Managing the Health Risks of Isocyanate Paints in the Workplace

Ensuring safety in paint spraying
Paint spraying, especially with isocyanates, poses serious health risks like asthma and dermatitis. Exposure occurs through inhalation, skin contact, and equipment use. Safety requires proper PPE, RPE, ventilation, and training.

 

Understanding isocyanate paints
Isocyanates, found in vehicle paints, pose serious health risks through inhalation and skin contact. Exposure occurs during spraying, mixing, curing, and sanding. Only trained personnel should handle them with proper precautions. Key risks include:

• Respiratory hazards: inhaling paint mist can cause asthma and other lung conditions.
• Skin exposure: direct contact may lead to dermatitis and allergic reactions.
• Workplace contamination: improper handling can expose others to harmful substances.

 

Controlling exposure and protective measures
To protect workers, the following safety measures should be implemented:

• Mix and clean paint in designated, well-ventilated areas.
• Use spray booths under negative pressure to contain mist.
• Keep paint lids closed to reduce vapours.
• Maintain spray and ventilation systems; inspect LEV (local exhaust ventilation).
• Wear and frequently replace PPE and RPE (disposable overalls, nitrile gloves).
• Ensure safe breathing air in spray booths.
• Dispose of hazardous waste in labelled, sealed bins.

 

Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE)
Spraying produces a fine mist that can be hazardous when inhaled. To minimise risks:

• Air-fed breathing apparatus (BA) must be worn at all times when spraying in spray booths, during gun cleaning, and throughout clearance periods.
• Proper fit testing is essential, as facial hair can affect the seal and reduce protection.
• RPE should only be removed in a safe air zone, following a strict protocol when exiting spray areas.
• Regular maintenance of breathing apparatus is required to ensure effectiveness.
• Compressed air supplies should be checked at three-month intervals for contaminants like oil, water, and carbon monoxide. However, the frequency can be extended based on a risk assessment, taking into consideration servicing and maintenance arrangements.
• Additional PPE and RPE should be worn, including disposable coveralls and gloves to prevent skin exposure.

 

Understanding COSHH and legal requirements
COSHH regulations require businesses to assess and control exposure to hazardous substances like paints, adhesives, and dust. Exposure occurs through:

• Inhalation: breathing in hazardous substances.
• Ingestion: accidental swallowing of chemicals.
• Skin absorption: chemicals penetrating the skin.
• Injection: accidental punctures introducing hazardous materials.
• Eye contact exposure to splashes, vapours, or mists.

 

All hazardous substances must be clearly labelled with hazard symbols, and Safety Data Sheets (SDS) should be reviewed to understand potential risks. Employers must implement control measures such as ventilation, engineering controls, PPE and RPE. Additionally, diisocyanate training is mandatory and must be renewed every five years for workers handling substances that contain these chemicals.

 

Health surveillance
Health surveillance promotes safety through annual biological monitoring, lung function, and skin checks.

 

Commitment to workplace safety
Spraying safely requires a combination of proper training, protective equipment, and strict adherence to safety guidelines. By following these measures, workplaces can significantly reduce health risks and ensure compliance with regulations. Employers should:

• Regularly review safety protocols and update them as needed.
• Provide ongoing training to all employees handling hazardous substances.
• Conduct exposure monitoring and health checks to maintain a safe working environment.