We have walk-in spray booths with LEV systems tested annually by external professionals. The LEV systems pass contaminate laden- air through paint filter, paper filters and then back into the workplace. The chemical is a water based adhesive with no R-phrases. My question: How often should we monitor the air quality outside of the booths, what is the legal requirement. As far as I understand air monitoring checked are needed at regular intervals according to COSHH, anyone give me any further information on the regulations etc?

Apart from what the regulations require, be aware that most water based paints will contain a preservative. One commonly use is methylisothiazolinone (MI). This is causing dermatologists considerable concern as they are experiencing a massive increase in allergic contact dermatitis, often facial, as a result of the presence of this chemical. In several studies the employer was completely unaware of the presence of this chemical as it was not shown on the safety data sheet. Moreover, it will remain in the paint as it dries and then be released slowly into the environment. This can result in an allergic reaction by someone already sensitised to this chemical (possibly as a result of exposure to a combination of MI and Methylchloroisothiazolinone (MCI). “MCI/MI is an important allergen for the hands and face, and it may also cause contact urticaria and airborne contact dermatitis. The airborne contact dermatitis may appear in the face of sensitized individuals who stay in newly painted rooms, and the diagnosis is easily missed unless specifically considered.” Duus Johansen J, Frosch PJ, Lepoittevin J-P, Contact Dermatitis, 2011, Springer-Verlag, ISBN 978-3-642-03826-6 In another study release of both MCI and MI from paint sufficient to initiate an allergic reaction in a closed environment was found 240 hours after application of the paint. Chris