We regularly read in newspapers about health hazards associated with paints. Owing to lack of knowledge and skill, painters are exposed to a danger that can adversely impact their health and well being. As a matter of fact, many paint ingredients are harmful to humans.
Most people can withstand these materials over a short period time and in small quantities. However, some people are immediately sensitive to some ingredients and almost everyone will be affected to some degree if exposed for an extended period of time. There are two major groups of irritants: toxic materials and skin irritating materials. The most abundant toxic materials found in paints and coatings are solvents. Other toxic materials in paints include pigments, binders and additives.
Also, dust from cleaning operations or application of the paint can generate toxic materials. These toxic materials can enter the body through breathing, ingestion or skin absorption. Most solvents are toxic to some degree depending on exposure. Irritating skin materials, if left untreated, can cause infections or ulceration. In reality, solvents have a tendency to dissolve and remove natural oils and fats from skin.
Certain binders such as epoxy resins may also irritate the skin. Other chemicals used in paint related work should be handled with care for example, paint removers, acid and alkaline cleaners. — Anees Lokhande, Alkhobar
Health hazards
