Health and Safety Tips - Paint Disposal, Fumes, etc

Heath and Safety Tips when painting

Painting your home should be a fun and rewarding as well as a risk-free experience. Here are some of the key health and safety issues you need to be aware of when painting or having your home painted. In case of emergency call a doctor, ambulance or the Poisons Information Centre on 131 126 (Australia-wide).

1. Read the paint can label. Always take note of any cautions or potential dangers indicated on the paint can, and take the appropriate preventative action. Some precautions recommended when using paints containing combustible or flammable materials include:  

• open all windows and doors to increase ventilation
• turn off gas, including barbeques
• clean spills promptly and dispose of clean-up materials safely
• keep cans closed when not in use
• keep cans away from children and pets
• don't smoke
  

2. Health Effects - exposure to paints can cause health problems. Sometimes these are noticeable right away and sometimes the reaction to the overexposure isn't observed until later. Common heath problems include:

• skin irritation
• respiratory problems
• headaches, dizziness, nausea
• effects to the nervous system
• blood, liver and kidney diseases
• carcinogenic effects
• poisoning

You can reduce exposure in several ways:

• use water-based paints, solvent based products are highly flammable and pose more health risks than water-based products.
  
• keep out of children's reach.
• read labels for first-aid advice.
  
• open all doors and windows to increase ventilation.
• if ventilation is an issue, use a respirator.
• wear long sleeved shirt and pants, splash goggles and gloves.
• wash paint off skin immediately with soap and water.
• flush eyes with cold water.
  

3. Lead exposure. Today's household paints do not contain lead but if you are working on a home built before 1970 there is a chance that there may be lead-based paint on the walls or trim. If it is in good condition it isn't hazardous, unless it is disturbed by sanding or scraping or other renovations which can result in lead-contaminated dust. Children, pregnant women and foetuses are at special risk of lead exposure as well as do-it-yourself home renovators who do not take the proper precautions. It is important to get professional advice and contractors for safe lead removal rather than tackling the project on your own. More information and advice can be found on the NSW Environmental Protection Authority or LEAD websites or by calling 1800 626 086.

4. Paint disposal and recycling.
Paint contains chemicals that can contaminate our groundwater and endanger our health. Recycling paint can help protect the environment. Here are some of the measures you can take:

• Buy only the paint you need for the immediate job, so disposal is not an issue.  Ask your paint retailer to help estimate the quantity you will need.
  
• Store paint so that it lasts. Properly stored paint can last for years. Use leftover paint for touch-up or smaller household paint jobs .
• Donate your leftover paint. If you can't use all of the paint, donate it to friends or community groups such as theatre groups, schools or churches.
• Dispose of paint properly. Never put liquid paint in the garbage bin and never pour it down the drain. Contact your local council for details on safe paint disposal and recycling in your area. 
  

5. Protective equipment. It is important to use protective equipment when painting to protect your eyes, lungs and skin from damage. The basic gear you will need for a safe job are: gloves, safety glasses or goggles, dust-mask for sanding, long sleeved shirt and long pants, and  sensible shoes. Always:

• ensure good ventilation with open windows and doors.
• remove sources of flame, sparks and ignition. 
  

6. Ladder safety.
Most paint jobs will require the use of a ladder. To minimise the likelihood of a ladder-related accident:

• take time to inspect the ladder and check its condition before and after use.
• clear the area from clutter and make sure that no electrical cords or wires are close.
• make sure the floor is even and stable.
• wear suitable shoes.
• don't use in wet conditions.
• never overstretch - do not climb beyond the last three steps of a ladder.