07 July 2025 Spray Paint Respiratory Protection Guide
Do you need to wear respiratory protection while spraying paint?
Yes, the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential when spray painting, regardless of the type of paint being used. However, the specific PPE required may vary depending on the paint formulation and associated hazards.
Water-Based Paints (Below OEL):
When airborne contaminant levels are below the occupational exposure limit (OEL), disposable respirators may be considered adequate. These respirators can offer a protection factor of up to 10.
Suitable Respirators/Filters:
Solvent-Based Paints:
Solvent-based paints typical contain a higher concentration of organic solvents, necessitating a respirator with a high level of protection. Reusable respirators can provide a protection factor of up to 100. See below mask options suited to solvent-based paints or water-based paints that exceed the OEL.
Suitable Respirators/Filters:
- 3M 6251 A1 P2 Spraying Respirator Kit
- 3M 7551 A1 P2 Spraying Respirator Kit
- 3M 6851 A1 P2 Spray/Paint Respirator Kit
- 3M 6051 A1 Organic Vapour Filter - Suitable with 3M Bayonet Style Reusable Respirators
- To be used with 3M 5925 P2 Particulate Filter or 3M 5935 P3 Particulate Filter & 3M 501 Retainers
Industrial Powder Coating:
Seeking a professional to evaluate the exposure levels are advised to ensure you are selecting the correct respiratory protection.
Clean-Up Solvents:
Depending on the solvent, the required protection may vary. This may include reusable masks or PAPR Systems. It is recommended to seek professional advice to ensure you are selecting the correct respiratory protection.
Isocyanate:
SafeWork Australia require the use of supplied air respiratory protection such as an airline system. “Organic vapour respirators with particulate pre-filters and powered air-purifying respirators are not suitable
when spraying isocyanates, as they do not provide adequate protection..” – Safe Work Australia: Guide to Handing Isocyanates, July 2020.
Check out our full range of Safety/PPE
- Full Range of PPE - Including Eye Protection, Disposable Coveralls, Earplugs & Gloves!
- Disposable & Reusable Respiratory Protection
- Powered Air Purifying Respirators (PAPR)
Personal protective equipment & respiratory protection is essential when working in a hazardous environment.
If you are uncertain about the appropriate equipment or next steps, please contact our friendly customer service team for guidance and support.
Call us: (07) 5618 5100
Email us: sales@abldistribution.com.au
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