Canadian Flag Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety Centre canadien d'hygiène et de sécurité au travail Government of Canada Wordmark
CCOHS: Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety
Français Contact Us Help
        
Canada Site
Web Info Service Products & Services OSH Answers Education & Training
Canada's national Occupational Health & Safety Resource
Home About Us E-News Bringing Health to Work Events Resources
OSH Answers Lists
What's New!
Subject Categories
Garages
Autobody Frame Straightening
Autobody Repair
Batteries
Fuel Safety
General Requirements
Hydraulic Lifts - General Information
Hydraulic Lifts - Operation
Inflating Tires on Wheels with Split Rims or Rims using Retainer Rings
Road Service
Servicing Split Rim Wheels
Servicing Vehicles
Single-piece Rim Wheels
Tire Precautions
Vehicle Maintenance
Washing and Cleaning
Work Practices
Working Under Vehicles
Related Products and Services

Courses:
Electrical Hazards
Lockout
More Information
About OSH Answers
Feedback
Disclaimer
Inquiries Service

The Inquiries Service at CCOHS answers questions on the health or safety concerns people have about the work they do.

About the Inquiries Service
Ask a Question

Autobody Repair

What are some general precautions to know when making repairs?
What should I do when spray painting?
What are some precautions when using respirators?


What are some general precautions to know when making repairs?

  • Make sure all motors inside the shop are turned off. If you must run the motor while inside the shop, make sure the local exhaust is attached to the muffler and that the exhaust is vented to the outside.
  • Follow procedures shown on MSDS's when using, handling, dispensing and storing flammable liquids and chemicals.
  • Use personal protective equipment (PPE). Refer to MSDS for recommended PPE. Make sure the PPE is not torn, ripped or defective.
  • Make sure that the area where you use chemicals is well ventilated.
  • Wash your hands before eating.
  • Avoid skin contact with chemicals.
  • Keep unused chemicals in their storage areas.
  • Do not use compressed air to remove dust from clothes or from surfaces.
  • Do not use chemicals from unlabelled containers.
  • Do not eat, drink or smoke inside the shop.
What should I do when spray painting?

Wear personal protective equipment including:

  • approved respirator
  • coveralls
  • gloves
  • eye protection

Follow precautions for all chemicals used especially isocyanates. Refer to standards and regulations for more information.

  • Ensure fire escape doors from paint room are clear before painting.
  • Use only properly grounded spray paint equipment.
  • Check pressure gauge on compressor periodically. Do not allow pressure to exceed recommended level.
  • Ensure that ventilation filters are not blocked.
  • Clean and replace respirator filters regularly.
  • Allow ventilation system to run several minutes before turning on the heat lamps.
  • Store no more than one day's supply of paint near the spray area.
  • Do not spray paint near grinding or welding operations.
  • Do not paint with heat lamps on.
  • Do not use compressed air to blow debris or to clean dirt from clothes.
What are some precautions when using respirators?

  • Inspect respirators before use. Discard respirators with damaged or cracked facepieces or straps. Discard used dust masks and canisters.
  • Respirators offer protection only if they fit properly. Use the following test to check the fit:
    • cartridge-type respirator - place your hands over the cartridge and inhale. If no air comes through, the respirator fits properly. If air comes through, readjust the straps and try again.
    • air-supplied respirator - follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding required air flow. Make sure that no air can come in from the outside.
  • Report any problems, especially if you find it difficult to breathe through the mask or if you notice a strange odour or taste. Breakthrough cannot be detected for isocyanates - always use an air-supplied respirator when working with isocyanates.
    Document last updated on May 28, 2001

    Copyright ©1997-2008 Canadian Centre for Occupational Health & Safety


Important Notices and Disclaimers
©CCOHS, 2008
Technical Support
 
Client Services
Products & services info
Inquiries Service
Answers to workplace questions
Webmaster
Website feedback