Shop Safety & Health Precautions

Safety First!

Automotive paint products should always be used by trained professionals, using proper equipment under controlled conditions. Automotive paint products should only be used in applications in which the product has been designed for. Automotive paint products are not intended for sale to the general public and should never be used on household items such as toys or furniture.

The health and safety of everyone who works in a collision center must be of utmost importance. Working with hazardous materials can present health problems if proper safety precautions are not taken seriously.

To assure on-the-job safety and minimize health risks, be sure to follow all applicable safety and health precautions for using autonotive paint products. These precautions can be found on all paint manufacturer's product labels and on Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS).

Safeguarding flammable materials

PPG refinish products contain volatile solvents, and are often flammable. Therefore it is extremely important that work areas be properly designed for use and storage of flammable liquids and that NO SMOKING be permitted. Proper fire extinguishers and other fire extinguishing systems should be readily available when handling any flammable liquids.

Be sure to check that your facility is designed in accordance with the guidelines set by the National Fire Protection Association and that it meets all applicable federal, state and local fire codes. In areas where flammable liquids are handled, make sure to use explosion-proof equipment that meets codes set by the National Fire Protection Association.

Safeguards to follow:

• The quantity of flammable liquids stored in the spraying area should not exceed what is required for one day's use.
• Paint and solvent products should be kept away from all sources of ignition including heat, sparks, flame, motors, burners, heaters, pilot lights and welding.
• Static electricity generated by liquid transfer must be prevented by proper bonding and grounding of solvent containers.
• Paint- or solvent-soaked rags should be replaced frequently.
• Use spray equipment safely
• Spray equipment can be hazardous if used improperly. Spraying with airless or electrostatic methods can cause static electricity and create a fire hazard. So be sure that careful grounding and bonding practices are observed. Refinishers should be aware that the high pressures of airless spraying can inject coating into the skin and may cause serious injury requiring immediate medical treatment.

Safety in the spray booth:

• Be sure the filtration system is clean at all times
• Check frequently to see that exhaust system is operating at peak efficiency, at a rate up to the manufacturer's specifications.
• Be sure your spray booth is up to local codes and OSHA standards regarding electrical equipment and air velocity .

Personal Protection Guide

Working in a body shop, poses some risks, so it is essential to protect yourself from exposure to dust, liquids, spray mists, fumes and vapors.

Hazards to Avoid:

Breathing:

• Dust from grinding
  
• Aerosols from spraying
  
• Vapors from spraying, mixing and stripping
  
• Skin or Eye contact
  
• Thinner or reducer splashes
  
• Phosphoric acid (metal treament products)
  
• Paint or catalyst splashes
  

To properly protect yourself always remember to:

Properly plan and organize job

• Read and understand instructions on label and MSDS for the products you are working with
• Use the correct respirator and protective equipment recommended for the job
• Maintain good housekeeping. Clean up spills and place products in designated storage after use

Protective Equipment:

The well-protected professional should wear or use the following:

• Prep Station
• Quality paint cap
• Safety goggles
• Lint-free coveralls
• Leather gloves
• Steel-toed safety shoes
• Approved dust respirator
• Spray Booth
• Nitrile gloves
• Approved air-supplied mask or hood respirator for spraying 2-pack isocyanate primers and topcoats or
• Approved dual-cartridge respirator for spraying single-stage primers, topcoats and clear coats

First Aid

FOR EMERGENCY MEDICAL INFORMATION

24-HOURS A DAY

U.S.A. 304-843-1300

CANADA 514-645-1320

If painting products are swallowed, do not induce vomiting

In case of skin contact, remove promptly by wiping, followed by waterless hand cleaner and soap and water

In case of eye contact, flush eyes immediately with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical attention

If affected by inhalation of vapor or spray mist, remove to fresh air. Apply artificial respiration and other support methods as required

If any of the following occur during or following use of paint products:

• Ingestion
• Excessive exposure to corrosive material
  
• Persistent skin/eye irritation or breathing difficulties
  
• Other symptoms

Contact a Poison Control Center, Emergency Room or Physician IMMEDIATELY. Have product label or MSDS readily available.

In all instances, medical and product information can be obtained through major paint manufacturer's and the National Poison Control Center Network.