Indoor Painting Safety 

Painting the indoor spaces of a home doesn’t sound like a risky proposition but it can be if the right procedures and techniques are not used during setup, painting and clean up. From rickety ladders to paint solvent fire hazards, there are many things to consider when making safety a top priority. 

Safety may not be the first thing you think about when planning your do-it-yourself painting project, but it should be. Here are several safety considerations to keep your project on track and you out of the hospital. 

Ensure Adequate Ventilation 

Since most paints contain chemicals that evaporate in the air and can cause poor air quality, having adequate ventilation while painting indoors is always a smart idea. According to the National Capital Poison Center, exposure to paint fumes from solvent paints can cause dizziness, headaches, and nausea.

One of the best ways to combat this ventilation issue is to open windows a few inches in the room you are painting as well as set up fans that can circulate the air well. If you do feel dizzy or develop a headache, consider using a respirator mask or using an exhaust fan in the windows to remove the fumes from the space. 

Practice Ladder Safety

Many homes with high stairwells or rooms with cathedral ceilings require ladders or scaffolding to paint the highest spaces precisely. 

Before using your ladder or scaffolding be sure that it is in good working condition and has been set up properly on solid footing. There should be no wobbling or unevenness before you start your climb on either piece of equipment. 

While on a climbing device, be sure to keep your footing and don’t lean too far one way or the other which could cause a fall. There should be a spotter who can hand you paint and tools so that you do not need to stretch or bend which could also cause balance issues. 

If you fear a fall, talk to painting professionals who have the expertise, experience, and equipment to get your high ceilings and stairwells painted safely. 

Wear Protective Clothing & Dust Masks 

Painting involves cleaning, sanding, and repairing damaged areas on walls before the actual application process can begin. To avoid dirt, debris and tiny particles of paint from entering your airway, wear a mask. You will find them easy to find and very helpful in keeping your breathing safe during the project. 

The same goes for clothing during your paint project – invest in protective clothing to keep paint from damaging your clothes. If you don’t want to invest in a paint coverall, wear old clothing that you don’t mind disposing of after the project is complete. 

Avoid Fire Hazards 

Paint solvents, strippers and thinners often find themselves on rags and brushes during paint projects that require paint stripping and scraping. These products are combustible and should be kept away from heat sources. They should be left outside to completely dry until they can be taken to a trash disposal site that accepts toxins. Please keep children and pets away from these chemicals as well. 

Follow these simple rules of painting interiors and you should have a safe and successful painting project completed in no time. 

Categorised in: How-Tos, Interior painting, Jerry Enos