Health Hazard Control Solutions for Industrial Coatings Projects

During surface preparation, and during the application of industrial coatings, it is important to ensure that all health risks are effectively managed

Using the right coating protects and strengthens an individual part of an asset, or the asset as a whole, making it last longer and look better. The industrial coating of assets is essential for the oil and gas, petrochemical, marine and other renewable industry sectors, and this work will often take place as part of a construction or repair programme.

However, here are some of the challenges you need to be mindful of:

- During the repair and/ or preparation of base materials, power tools are used to sand, cut, grind, brush or polish the surface; this will create an abundance of dust that must be properly controlled.

- Each stage of the coating process presents it's own health risks, for example welding or burning fumes may be generated during repair work, VOCs and other chemical vapours may become airborne when cleaning the base material, and coatings may contain solvents and other harmful substances. These airborne contaminants need to be extracted and/or ventilation solution to keep your workforce safe.

- Welding may be necessary on heavy equipment, such as large vessels designed to hold liquids and gases, valves, and high-pressure pipes. The materials being welded vary, but may include aluminium, stainless steel and carbon steel. Welding fumes must be controlled inline with COSHH regulations

- There will be scenarios where industrial coatings projects will need to take place in confined spaces, such as inside a boiler. There are various risks involved in this situation, such as a build up of noxious fumes, reduced oxygen levels or a risk of fire. When a project is based in this environment, it is required by law to ensure that sufficient measures are put in place to protect the safety of workers.

Download a copy of this guide to discover how to manage these challenges, remain compliant with legislation, keep everyone safe and your project on track.