Environmental and Health Protection Measures

The solvents in the as-supplied alkyd resin solutions and in the paint composition represent a potential hazard due to their (eco)toxicological effects and flammability. Manufacturers and suppliers of resin solutions and paints must indicate the potential dangers involved in the handling, transportation, and storage of solvents by labeling drums and containers according to national and international regulations. 

Health risks depend on the nature of the solvents and their concentration in the paint. Risks arise from solvent vapors during paint application. Working areas must be adequately ventilated to prevent vapor accumulation and respirators must be worn during spraying to prevent inhalation of paint aerosols. 

Paint residues require special handling and disposal (special tips). Paints, solvents, and resins must under no circumstances be allowed to pollute the ground or effluent. Legal provisions concerning emission limits must be observed when applying paints. 

Solvents differ as regards their miscibility with water and flash point and thus their potential fire hazards (flammability, combustibility). Explosive solvent vapor air mixtures may be formed when applying paints. Spark formation (e.g., by static charging) must be avoided and hot surfaces or naked flames must be removed. 

Combustible materials contaminated with air-drying and oven-drying alkyd paints, and spray dusts, may tend to exhibit spontaneous ignition due to autoxida-tion. Storage under exclusion of air and regular cleaning of the spray cabins improves safety. 

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