11 Painting Hazards And Safety Control Measures

Painting hazards covers everything, situations or conditions which could pose a potential risk to anyone carrying out painting activity. This topic will cover Painting Hazards And Safety Control Measures.

Painting Hazards Include:

1. Working at heights: A painter working at height will be exposed to all the risks relating to working at height; like falling from height, falling objects, etc.
2. Working in confined spaces: The painter will be exposed to hazards like low oxygen availability, heat, etc.
3. Risk of eye injury: When exposed to fumes released from the paint, the painter’s eyes may be affected if not well protected.
4. Slips, trips and falls: The painter could slip, trip or fall while painting.
5. Exposure to paint products, solvents, lead and other toxic substances: Some components of the paint posses health related issues that could affect the painter’s health if not well protected.
6. Proximity to flammable or combustible materials.
7. Musculoskeletal disorders: The painter may assume some awkward postures while painting, leading to the development of musculoskeletal injuries.
8. Prolong standing: Prolong standing can result to blood pooling, leading to fainting.
9. Manual lifting: Excessive and poor manual lifting techniques can result to musculoskeletal injuries.
10. Exposure to heat and ultraviolet radiation.
11. Electrical hazards from working close to live electrical power lines or equipment.

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Safety Control Measures To Manage Painting Hazards

• Learn correct procedures for working at heights.
• Select a safe working platform for the job.
• Avoid awkward body positions or take frequent breaks.
• Learn safe lifting techniques or call for assistance when necessary.
• Know how to prevent injury from electrical hazards. Maintain safe distances from energized electrical equipment or utility lines.
• Keep tools and equipment, and their safety features, in good working order. This can be achieved by routine inspection of working equipment.
• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment and footwear.
• Keep work areas clear of clutter and equipment.
• Learn safety procedures for working in confined spaces.
• Maintain good ventilation during painting. Artificial ventilation may be required.
• Good lighting should be provided in a confine space.

Read Also: 11 Valid Ergonomics Principles for Preventing Musculoskeletal Disorders in the Workplace