Work environment and ergonomics for building painters

A newly qualified painter can look forward to many years in the trade — if the body keeps up. And it's not a given. Painting work involves many repeated movements working with arms above shoulder height and days on your knees or in awkward positions. Add to that fumes dust and chemicals and you have a trade where it pays to think about your body from day one.

Most painters feel something in their shoulders, neck or knees sooner or later. This is often because the same movements are repeated thousands of times. You cannot avoid everything, but you can do much to distribute the load.

• 01Vary your tasks so you do not do the same thing for hours
• 02Use an extension shaft so you avoid painting above shoulder height
• 03Adjust scaffolding and elbows in height so you work in a good position
• 04Use knee pads or knee protection when working on floors and skirting boards
• 05Lift with legs, not back — and carry buckets close to your body

Although modern paint is largely water-based and far gentler than past solvent-heavy products you still work with substances you should not inhale. Spackle dust sanding dust fumes from certain products and aerosols from spray painting can all stress your airways.

Protect your lungs

• 01Use respiratory protection with the correct filter during spray work and grinding
• 02Ensure ventilation or extraction in enclosed spaces
• 03Use a vacuum cleaner with filter rather than sweeping dust
• 04Always read the safety data sheet before opening a new product

Your skin is also exposed. Repeated contact with paint thinner and cleaners can cause eczema and some substances can be absorbed through the skin. Use gloves suitable for the product wash hands with a mild cleanser rather than thinner and moisturize your skin so it does not dry out. With spray work and overhead you should wear safety glasses.

When you work in older buildings the substrate can hide surprises. Old paint can contain lead and insulation or boards can contain asbestos. Both are dangerous if sanded or broken without proper precautions. If you are unsure stop and ask – there are rules for how this should be handled.

Work environment is not just about any one day but about the sum of all your working days. The painters who stay in the trade longest are rarely the strongest — they are the ones who early made safety and ergonomics a habit. Take breaks use your equipment and speak up when something is not responsible.

“You must not choose between being efficient and taking care of yourself. In the long run, they're the same thing.”