• What does a painter do?
• What are some health and safety issues for painters?
• What are some preventive measures for painters?
• What are some good general safe work practices?
• Where can I get more information?

What does a painter do?

A painter applies paint and other decorative finishes to interior and exterior surfaces of buildings and other structures.

Some of the main duties of a painter are to:

• Prepare surfaces to be painted (includes scraping, removal of wallpaper, etc.).
• Determine what materials will be needed.
• Use, clean and maintain various equipment.
• Supervise apprentices or other workers.
• Provide estimates and invoices for clients.

What are some health and safety issues for painters?

Painters can work at a variety of workplaces, construction sites, homes, etc. and face a constantly changing set of hazards. The hazards include:

• Working at heights
• Ladders, platforms and scaffolds
• Working in confined spaces
• Risk of eye injury
• Slips, trips and falls
• Risk of injury from falling objects
• Exposure to moulds, fungi and bacteria
• Exposure to paint products, solvents, lead and other toxic substances
• Proximity to flammable or combustible materials
• Working in awkward positions, or performing repetitive physical tasks
• Standing for long periods of time
• Lifting heavy or awkward objects
• Exposure to heat and ultraviolet radiation
• Noise
• Stress
• Shift work or extended work days

What are some preventive measures for painters?

• Learn correct procedures for working at heights.
• Avoid awkward body positions or take frequent breaks.
• Learn safe lifting techniques.
• Keep tools and equipment, and their safety features, in good working order.
• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment and footwear.
• Keep work areas clear of clutter and equipment.
• Learn safety procedures for working in confined spaces.

What are some good general safe work practices?

• Practice safety procedures for:
  • Working at heights
  • Lifting
  • Repetitive physical tasks
  • Selection, use, maintenance and storage of personal protective equipment
  • Confined space entry

• Follow company safety rules.
• Learn about chemical hazards, WHMIS and MSDSs.
• Know how to report a hazard
• Follow good housekeeping procedures.

Where can I get more information?

General information is available in OSH Answers or through the CCOHS person-to-person Inquiries Service.

Want more information?

Document last updated on September 10, 2004

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