Paints and other coatings help to protect a ship from a harsh and corrosive environment. Large volumes of these materials may be sprayed onto a ship under construction or repaur. These may present a number of hazards to workers in the area.
Spray fainting is rapid and efficient, but may volatize materials, resulting in a toxic and potentially explosive atmosphere.
Hazards associated with maritime spraying of paints or other coatings:
(1) volatile and explosive atmosphere, especially in a confined space that is poorly ventilated
(2) toxicity of solvents
(3) toxicity of chemicals, coatings and additives
Body areas that need to be protected:
(1) skin
(2) eyes
(3) respiratory tract
Preventive measures:
(1) worksite survey prior to work initiation to identify possible hazards
(2) knowledge of chemical hazards posed by each paint or coating as well as its flash point
(3) ventilation to disperse chemicals in the air
(4) avoidance of flame and electrical hazards in the work area. Motors should be grounded, well-maintained and explosion proof
(5) control of static electicity including restrictions on ferrous materials
(6) personal protective equipment (PPE) including full body protection and protected air supply
(7) proper scaffolding to allow safe access to all work areas with fall protection
(8) avoidance of heat stress
(9) monitoring of solvent vapor concentrations in the atmosphere
(10) proper maintenance of air spray equipment in order to avoid malfunction
