Solvents (VOC's) or other chemicals in paint products, isocyanates in hardeners, and chemicals in body filler, can all have a harmful effect on your health and safety. For example, while pouring paint you might breath solvent fumes, or you might get chemicals on your skin or in your eyes if the material is splashed or spilled.

Personal protective equipment (PPE) protects you from hazards. Everyone must wear PPE when required by provincial regulations or your employer's safety rules. PPE refers to safety glasses, goggles or face shields, masks, respirators, hearing protection, steel-toed boots and non-slip footwear, solvent resistant gloves, aprons, hard hats or bump caps, coveralls or any other special clothing.

Some of the best sources of information on hazards and proper personal protective for the paint mixing room are (1) the supplier MSDS, (2) supplier technical bulletins, (3) training courses, or (4) the labels on product containers. A list of all appropriate PPE required should be posted in the paint mixing room, and employers must ensure this equipment is used.

Here are some good safety tips from AIA Canada:

WHAT CAN YOU DO

Before Use

* Make sure you know how to use your personal protective equipment correctly - if you are not sure, ask your supervisor.
* Make certain that the PPE used is specified correctly for the task.
* Wear hearing protection such as earplugs or muffs when using air tools.
* Wear eye protection such as safety glasses, goggles or face shields when handling flammable or corrosive materials.
* Wear steel-toed slip-resistant shoes when in the shop.
* Make sure that your mask or respirator is the proper one for the job you are doing and in good condition.

After Use

* All defective personal protective equipment must be reported immediately.
* Keep the personal protective equipment you use clean, well maintained and stored properly.

Did you Know?

* Employers are responsible for identifying the hazards in the workplace, including the paint mixing room; putting up signs where personal protective equipment is to be worn and making sure employees always use the equipment.
* Employers must make sure that the employees are trained in how to use the right equipment, materials and personal protective equipment for the job.
* Employers are responsible for making sure all personal protective equipment is in good working condition.

(Courtesy of AIA Canada)

The Automotive Industries Association of Canada (AIA) provides more information on personal protective equipment in a poster and pamphlet called 'The Top Ten Steps…to a safer more profitable shop". It is available directly from the AIA, http://www.aiacanada.com/downloads/topten.pdf or through your paint supplier or jobber.

The following information available from the Canadian Centre of Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) in Hamilton, Ontario will provide additional information on the use of personal protective equipment in collision repair facilities.

http://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/safety_haz/garages/autobody_repair.html

3M Canada's Occupational Health and Safety website can provide useful information.

http://www.3m.com/ca/english/market/traffic/ohes/index.html