The health hazards of one-component solvent-based acrylic and alkyd coatings are mainly related to the solvents used in the coatings and their evaporation into the breathing air.
HEALTH HAZARDS OF ACRYLIC COATINGS
Solvent-based, one-component acrylic coatings have quite low solids content and contain a lot of solvents. Common solvents in acrylic coatings include e.g. xylene and other hydrocarbons.
HEALTH HAZARDS OF ALKYD COATINGS
Solvent-based, one-component alkyd coatings have quite low solids content and contain a lot of solvents. Common solvents in alkyd coatings include e.g. xylene and other hydrocarbons. Some alkyd coatings contain health-harming anti-skinning agents and driers. Nowadays, however, it has been possible to replace these with other raw materials that are safer for health, so the health hazards of alkyd coatings are also mainly related to solvents.
PERSONAL PROTECTION WHEN SPRAYING ONE-COMPONENT ACRYLIC AND ALKYD COATINGS
Respiratory protection: If ventilation is insufficient, half- or full mask with gas filter A, and when grinding P-type dust filter must be used. Mask with combined filter (gas & dust) AP must be used when spraying. In the continuous long-term work it is recommended to use motored air protector or separative protector (fresh air hood or compressed air hood or such).
Hand protection: When choosing a protective glove material, penetration times, rates of diffusion and the degradation must be considered. Material of gloves: Wear suitable gloves tested to EN374. May be used, gloves (breakthrough time) 4-8 hours: butyl rubber, nitrile rubber.
Eye/face protection: Tightly sealed goggles. The eye flushing device should be located near the the paint work area.
Body protection: Protective work clothing