Ask the Expert Question-and-Answer Archive

by Ron Joseph

August, 2005

Evaporation of Paint Solvents and Health Effects

Q. How do you reduce the health effects of solvent evaporation in painting operations?

A. The most common methods for minimizing the effects of solvents on a person's health for the person to wear an appropriate respirator when painting. There are numerous web sites that will give you guidance in selecting a respirator. Painters must undetrgo "fit testing" for some of the respirators on the market.
The next most effective method for minimizing health effects is to provide for adequate ventilation. In a paint spray room the recommended minimum air velocity under the most common scenarios is 100 ft/min.

Best wishes,

Ron Joseph