Paint Selection & The Team

  • OSHA recommends always reading the safety data sheets (SDSs) and labels before painting. Because there are so many types of paints designed for different purposes, read each label about what hazards may be involved.
  • Familiarize your team with General Code of Safe Practices for Production, including the handling of Painted Backdrops or safety bulletins specific to the needs of your production.
  • Communicate with your team in advance, conduct safety meetings, and make sure everyone has access to safety data sheets, proper ventilation and appropriate protective equipment.

Tracking Material Use

Choose paint with low or zero VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) instead of standard store-brand paint. This is because there are fewer toxic chemicals that adversely affect human health and the environment.

LOOK FOR: Low VOC <50 grams per liter Zero VOC <5 grams per liter

What products contain VOCs and why are they so toxic? Common VOCs include benzene, formaldehyde, methylene chloride, trichloroethylene, and tetrachloroethylene. Found in:

  • Pesticides
  • Building materials
  • Furnishings & Office equipment
  • Paints
  • Lacquers
  • Paint strippers
  • Cleaning supplies

Benzene has been linked to causing cancers in humans.

Lifecycle Considerations

Purchasing

Inventory and use what you have first

Use

End-of-Life