Paint Sprayer Operation

This Standard Operating Procedure (SOP-SPR-002) details the safe operation and associated hazards of airless paint sprayers. It is crucial for workers and supervisors in the painting and decorating industry to understand risks like chemical exposure and fire hazards. Compliance with this document not only ensures worker safety but also adheres to relevant Australian Work Health and Safety legislation.

• Airless paint injection injury at >100 bar — paint forced under skin → requires immediate surgical exploration (medical emergency)
• Inhalation of organic vapours, isocyanates (2K paints), and solvent mists → asthma, sensitisation, occupational asthma, and chronic respiratory disease
• Fire and explosion in solvent atmospheres — flash fire from ignition source
• Skin contact with coatings, thinners, and isocyanates → dermatitis, sensitisation
• Eye contact with overspray and solvent splash → chemical burn
• Electric shock from non-EX-rated electrical equipment in flammable atmospheres
• Slips on overspray-coated floors
• Static discharge igniting solvent vapour in hose lines or spray booth

• Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (Cth) and applicable state/territory WHS legislation
• Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 (Cth) — Chapter 7 Hazardous Chemicals; Schedule 14 Hazardous Chemicals Requiring Health Monitoring (isocyanates)
• AS 4114 — Spray painting booths, designated areas and exhaust-ventilated work stations
• AS 1940 — Storage and handling of flammable and combustible liquids
• AS/NZS 60079 series — Explosive atmospheres (hazardous area classification)
• AS/NZS 1715 — Selection, use and maintenance of respiratory protective equipment
• AS/NZS 1716 — Respiratory protective equipment
• AS/NZS 1337 — Personal eye protection
• AS/NZS 4501 — Occupational protective clothing
• AS/NZS 60335 — Safety of household and similar electrical appliances
• Safe Work Australia — Code of Practice: Managing Risks of Hazardous Chemicals in the Workplace
• Safe Work Australia — Workplace Exposure Standards for Airborne Contaminants
• Paint Sprayer Pre-Start Checklist (associated document)