Paint, rust, scale removal, deburring, filing and sanding to smooth finish will expose workers to fine particles and mists. The cleaning and degreasing process can also require respiratory protection. 3M disposable respirators are the ideal solution in combination with 3M Protective Eyewear.
Solvent-based paints often contain a higher level of solvents or other reactive chemicals, requiring an air-purifying respirator that can specifically provide respiratory protection from volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and specific chemicals. Supplied air respirators may be more suitable (or mandated) for certain tasks or exposures. Some water-based paints or where chemical exposures are less than occupational exposure limit, filtering facepiece respirators may be suitable, however for most tasks a reusable respirator will be sufficient.
Particulates in handling, mixing and spraying powder coating materials present a respiratory hazard. These coatings typically have minimal or no VOCs. Fire or explosion are possible hazards requiring a respirator meeting intrinsically safe standards.
Spray equipment can be cleaned after use with solvents which may require respiratory protection. Powder coat materials also present respiratory hazards during clean up. Solvents and powder coats are a potential source of fire and explosion.
Powered Air Purifying Respirators (PAPR) are a suitable selection for many painting applications and when using a variety of paint types. Benefits of a PAPR include:
Maintain visibility and help prevent exposure to paint particles with safety goggles. 3M goggles have optional features, including:
When you are dealing with liquid splashes or sprays and hazardous particles – you may need full body coverage and protection. 3M offers a variety of coveralls with breathable fabrics and comfortable features.
When your industrial painting project has you working at height, look for a full-body harness with webbing material that can repel paint particles. Select 3M full-body harnesses come with repel-webbing technology to help maintain the cleanliness of your equipment.
Find some of our most popular resources to help you train your team.
From airborne hazards to painting at heights, we have PPE to keep you protected all over. This infographic will outline the variety of PPE available to support you and your painting application needs.
We've created this guide to help you learn more about common painting hazards, injuries and control measures you can take to help provide a safer workplace.
Download a series of hazard bulletins, including Isocyanates, organic solvents and powder coats.
Review what trainings are available to help your employees protect themselves during the painting process.
Access this free, on-demand webinar to watch at your own convenience. In this webinar, we explore the hazards of painting and coating, the importance of comfort and ease of use of your PPE. We also demonstrate how innovation is addressing some of the most common issues related to the hazards:
Find out more abut our solutions and resources for other heavy industry applications.