Hazard Warning - Painting

Some of the more common toxic materials used in painting are solvents, pigments, certain vehicles (such as quick lime), varnishes and preservatives. Certain art processes such as aerosol spraying suspend fine mists in the air which could further increase exposure to harmful materials. Studies show that some diseases, including certain cancers, lung and nervous system disorders, are more common among creative industrial artists than the general population. All these sections on Occupational Health issues are meant to solely increase your awareness of certain potential hazards and are not intended as a complete guide. Medical concerns should be immediately communicated to your physician or a responsible health care provider.

What causes these diseases?
Solvents such as turpentine are intended to clean and to dissolve and all solvents damage the skin to some degree. Some solvents are absorbed by human skin and enter the bloodstream. The result may be dermatitis, allergic sensitization, liver and kidney damage, nerve damage, reproductive system and fetal damage and certain types of cancer.

Inhalation of some types of vapors and fine dusts can lead to disease. To smell something is to inhale it. However, not all materials have a detectable odor and some solvents deaden your sense of smell. Chemicals in the air can get into your lungs and then into your bloodstream.

Accidental oral ingestion and inhalation of toxic material is common. Tiny particles deposit on eating utensils and cigarettes. Soiled hands can transfer material to food and cigarettes. Inhaled cigarette smoke carries airborne vapors and poisonous fumes deep into the lungs.

Certain heavy metals in pigments are particularly toxic. These can damage the body in many ways. For example lead can damage the brain, kidneys, blood and other organs. Manganese can cause disease similar to Parkinson's disease. Cadmium can damage the kidney's and other organs. Other toxic metals include barium, antimony, lithium, chrome, nickel and vanadium.

How do I protect myself?
Substitute safer materials whenever possible. Use mineral spirits for most clean-up and use small amounts of more toxic solvents only if needed. Do no use solvents to clean your hands- wear a barrier cream or gloves when working and follow with soap and water.

Practice good workplace hygiene: keep studio and living-eating spaces separate and wear protective clothing, Wash hands and clean under nails before leaving the studio- some cases of poisoning have occurred by getting pigments/paint in cuts or sores. Wear gloves and goggles when handling corrosives and concentrated solutions.

Use caution with all dusts. Do not use asbestos contaminated talcs. Glove boxes to mix powdered materials can be easily and inexpensively made. If ventilation cannot be provided wear an approved dust mask when exposed to dust. Wet-mop floors and surfaces to prevent raising dust.

When mixing your own paints or using commercially prepared paints, you may be exposed to additives such as preservatives, binders and driers. Minimize inhalation of toxins by using local exhaust ventilation. Vent contaminants to the outside and provide fresh air into your studio. Spray painting should be done in a spray booth or with a respirator (face mask) designed for the kind of paint you are using.

When handling varnishes, lacquers, thinner and epoxy resins, use gloves and provide ample ventilation. Most solvents are flammable: keep a fire extinguisher handy. Never use any solution containing benzene (benzol).

Keep children out of the work area. Label all containers well to prevent accidental use. Keep oily rags and other cleanup materials in closed metal containers to prevent spontaneous combustion. Dispose of toxic materials appropriately.

Buy only what you need to reduce the volume of disposal. Collaborate with others to share the cost of disposal of large quantities. Check local and state regulations about disposal.