Painting and Coatings — Chemical Exposure
Construction and general industry · Ver en español
Talking points
- Spray painting requires ventilation to control overspray and fume exposure. In spray booths, airflow must draw fumes away from the painter's breathing zone.
- Solvent-based coatings produce flammable vapors — monitor LEL levels and ensure no ignition sources are present in the spray area.
- Check the SDS for each coating you are using. The SDS specifies the correct respiratory protection, glove type, and ventilation requirements.
- Two-component coatings (epoxies, polyurethanes) often contain isocyanates, which are potent respiratory sensitizers. Once sensitized, even tiny exposures cause asthma attacks.
- Lead-based paint may be present on older structures being repainted. Test before disturbing and follow lead-safe work practices if lead is confirmed.
Ask the crew
What coatings are we applying today, and have we checked the SDS for respiratory and ventilation requirements?
Standards this talk is built on
A toolbox talk is a short safety briefing. It supports the training a standard requires; it does not replace it.
Run this talk with your crew and keep the record
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Sign-in sheet
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| Name | Signature | Date |
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