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hogan  
#1 Posted : 07 November 2013 14:42:28(UTC)
Rank: Forum user
hogan

I have been asked to assist with the preparation of RAMS for a small decorating team to decorate in plant rooms of a Water treatment works. Most of the painting products are water based but there is an intention to use a two pack filler. I have requested all the COSHH material safety data sheets and information. I have visited the project to see first hand the environment and all the chemical units/plant would appear to be sealed but my concern is could there be a vapour build up issue or the combination of paint materials etc. create a hazard. There is a facility to open doors and roller shutters to allow natural ventilation. I appreciate it is very difficult for you to envisage what I am asking but any advice offered greatly received if you have knowledge within this field.
JJ Prendergast  
#2 Posted : 07 November 2013 14:57:57(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
JJ Prendergast

From the information you have given it would appear to be unlikely. i.e. water based paints and the ability to open doors/shutters to provide ventilaion. Maybe new paint odours, but this isn't likely to be hazardous. As ever, the devil is in the detail - re-check for any 'one off' problem paints etc. Worst case is probably solvent based paints leading to a flammable atmosphere. Again unlikely if you have adequate ventilation/and apply in sensible amounts.
A Kurdziel  
#3 Posted : 07 November 2013 16:27:11(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
A Kurdziel

What I’d do is check the SDS to see if there are any volatile compounds in the stuff they are using; cross check this with EH40. Do a calculation based on room size etc and see if there is a chance of exceeding the WEL.
chris.packham  
#4 Posted : 07 November 2013 23:12:29(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
chris.packham

A word of caution concerning water based paints. Almost all will contain a preservative of some sort. This will almost always be some form of biocide and a sensitiser. There is now a considerable body of evidence and case studies of the potential that this can cause in a closed environment in that the preservative will remain in the paint even after this has dried and cured and will be released slowly into the environment. One study showed release at a significant level of Methylchloroisothiazolinone/Methylisothiazolinone mix ten days after application of the paint. This may require ventilation for some considerable time after the paint has been applied, particularly if there will be people working for any period of time in what is, in effect, a closed environment. If you would like more on this PM me your e-mail. Chris
jarsmith83  
#5 Posted : 08 November 2013 08:32:39(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
jarsmith83

Having worked for a water company. I would advise that you speak to the company directly and they will be more than willing to assist if you speak to their QHSE team directly. There is no way that they would just want to leave you to your own device. This forum is great but with limited information it is difficult to advise directly without seeing all the info etc. good luck.
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