Safe Work Procedure: Sanding and Painting Drywall

Document Number: [SWP-NUMBER] Revision Date: [DATE] Next Review Date: [NEXT REVIEW DATE] Department: [DEPARTMENT NAME]

1. Scope

This Safe Work Procedure (SWP) outlines the necessary safety precautions and procedures for sanding and painting drywall in construction and renovation settings. It applies to all workers involved in these tasks to minimize exposure to hazards such as dust inhalation, lead exposure (if applicable), and physical injuries. This procedure covers both manual and power sanding methods, as well as various painting techniques. It does not cover abrasive blasting [1].

2. Definitions

ACM (Asbestos-Containing Material) Any material containing more than one percent asbestos.

HEPA Filter A high-efficiency particulate air filter that captures at least 99.97% of airborne particles 0.3 micrometers in diameter.

PEL (Permissible Exposure Limit) The maximum legal limit for exposure to a chemical or physical agent such as lead [2].

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

• Ensure all workers are properly trained and competent to perform sanding and painting tasks.
• Provide the necessary PPE and ensure it is used correctly.
• Conduct pre-job briefings to discuss potential hazards and control measures.
• Ensure the work area is properly prepared and ventilated [3].
• Monitor workers to ensure compliance with this SWP.

3.2 Workers

• Participate in required training and pre-job briefings.
• Inspect PPE and equipment before use and report any defects.
• Follow the safe work procedures outlined in this SWP.
• Use required PPE at all times during sanding and painting activities.
• Report any hazards, incidents, or near-misses to the supervisor immediately.

3.3 Health and Safety Representative

• Assist in the development and review of this SWP.
• Conduct regular inspections of work areas to identify potential hazards.
• Provide guidance and support to supervisors and workers on health and safety matters.
• Investigate incidents and near-misses to determine root causes and recommend corrective actions.

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Dust inhalation (drywall dust, lead dust if present)	Respiratory irritation, silicosis, lead poisoning	Use respirators (NIOSH-approved), local exhaust ventilation, wet methods, HEPA vacuum for cleanup 2, 4, 5
Lead exposure (if lead-based paint is present)	Lead poisoning, neurological effects	Perform lead exposure assessment, use appropriate respirators and PPE, implement lead-safe work practices 1, 7
Eye injuries	Corneal abrasion, irritation	Wear safety glasses or goggles [1]
Skin contact with paint or solvents	Dermatitis, irritation	Wear gloves, use appropriate skin protection creams
Slips, trips, and falls	Sprains, fractures	Maintain a clean and organized work area, use proper ladders and scaffolding
Fire hazards (from solvent-based paints)	Burns, explosions	Store flammable materials properly, ensure adequate ventilation, eliminate ignition sources 6, 20
Electrical hazards (using power tools)	Electric shock, electrocution	Inspect tools for damage, use GFCI protection, avoid wet conditions [4]
Ergonomic hazards (repetitive motions)	Musculoskeletal disorders	Take breaks, rotate tasks, use ergonomic tools

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Proper PPE must be worn at all times during sanding and painting activities to minimize the risk of injury or illness.

• Respirator - NIOSH-approved respirator (particulate filter or higher) to protect against dust inhalation. Fit-test and train employees on proper use and maintenance 2, 5.
• Safety Glasses/Goggles - To protect eyes from dust and paint splashes [1].
• Gloves - Chemical-resistant gloves to prevent skin contact with paints and solvents.
• Protective Clothing - Coveralls or work clothes to protect skin from paint and dust.
• Hearing Protection - Earplugs or earmuffs if using noisy power tools.

Inspect PPE before each use for damage or defects. Replace damaged PPE immediately. Clean and maintain PPE according to manufacturer's instructions.

6. Equipment and Tools

Only use equipment and tools that are in good working condition and appropriate for the task.

• Sandpaper/Sanding Sponges - Various grits for different sanding needs.
• Sanding Block/Pole Sander - For manual sanding of large surfaces.
• Power Sander (e.g., orbital sander) - For efficient sanding of large areas. Ensure it has dust collection capabilities [4].
• Paint Brushes/Rollers - For applying paint to surfaces.
• Paint Sprayer - For applying paint quickly and evenly (ensure proper ventilation and respiratory protection).
• Ladders/Scaffolding - For reaching high areas safely.
• Drop Cloths/Plastic Sheeting - To protect surfaces from paint splatters.
• HEPA Vacuum - For cleaning up dust and debris 4, 10, 11, 12, 19.

Inspect all equipment and tools before each use for damage or defects. Follow manufacturer's instructions for proper use and maintenance.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

• Workers must be trained in the proper use of PPE, equipment, and tools.
• Workers must be trained on the hazards of dust inhalation and lead exposure (if applicable).
• Workers must be trained on proper handling and disposal of hazardous materials.
• Ensure workers are trained in asbestos awareness if there is a potential to disturb asbestos-containing materials [5].

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

• Conduct a pre-job briefing with all workers involved to discuss the scope of work, potential hazards, and control measures.
• Review this SWP and ensure all workers understand their roles and responsibilities.
• Discuss emergency procedures and contact information.

7.3 Work Area Preparation

• Ensure the work area is well-ventilated. Use local exhaust ventilation if possible 3, 6, 8.
• Cover surfaces with drop cloths or plastic sheeting to protect them from paint splatters.
• Set up proper lighting to ensure adequate visibility.
• Ensure ladders and scaffolding are stable and properly erected.
• If lead-based paint is suspected, perform a lead exposure assessment 1, 7.
• Seal off HVAC systems to prevent contamination if asbestos-containing materials are present [6].

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

8.1 Surface Preparation

• Clean the surface to be sanded to remove any dirt, dust, or debris.

• Repair any cracks or holes in the drywall using appropriate patching compounds.

• Allow patching compounds to dry completely before sanding.

• Safety Considerations: Wear appropriate PPE (respirator, safety glasses, gloves) during surface preparation.

8.2 Sanding

• Use appropriate grit sandpaper for the desired finish.

• When sanding manually, use a sanding block or pole sander for even pressure.

• When using a power sander, use a dust collection system to minimize dust exposure 1, 3, 5, 8.

• Sand in a smooth, even motion, avoiding excessive pressure.

• For lead-based paint, use wet sanding methods to minimize dust generation 4, 11, 12.

• Safety Considerations: Ensure proper ventilation. Wear a respirator at all times. Avoid overexertion and take breaks to prevent ergonomic injuries.

8.3 Painting

• Stir paint thoroughly before use.

• Apply paint in thin, even coats using a brush, roller, or sprayer.

• Allow each coat of paint to dry completely before applying the next coat.

• When using a paint sprayer, ensure proper ventilation and respiratory protection 9, 13, 18.

• Clean brushes and rollers immediately after use with appropriate solvents.

• Safety Considerations: Avoid breathing paint fumes. Wear gloves to prevent skin contact. Store flammable paints and solvents in a well-ventilated area away from ignition sources.

8.4 Cleanup

• Clean up all dust and debris with a HEPA vacuum 4, 10, 11, 12, 19.

• Dispose of used sandpaper, rags, and other waste materials properly.

• Clean all equipment and tools after use.

• Remove drop cloths and plastic sheeting and dispose of them properly.

• Wash hands and face thoroughly after completing the work.

• Safety Considerations: Wear appropriate PPE during cleanup. Do not use compressed air for cleaning [7].

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

• Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation to minimize exposure to dust and fumes 3, 6, 8, 20.
• Respiratory Protection: Always wear a NIOSH-approved respirator when sanding or painting 2, 5.
• Lead Safety: If lead-based paint is present, follow lead-safe work practices 1, 7.
• Fire Safety: Store flammable materials properly and eliminate ignition sources 6, 20.
• Electrical Safety: Use GFCI protection when using power tools [4].
• Asbestos Awareness: Be aware of the potential for asbestos-containing materials in older buildings and follow appropriate procedures if encountered 4, 10, 11, 12, 19.

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

• In case of any emergency, immediately stop work and assess the situation.
• Evacuate the area if necessary.
• Call for help and provide first aid if needed.

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

• Fire: Activate the fire alarm and evacuate the building. Use a fire extinguisher if safe to do so.
• Exposure to Hazardous Materials: Immediately flush affected area with water and seek medical attention.
• Injury: Provide first aid and call for medical assistance if needed.

10.3 Emergency Contact Information

• [Emergency Contact 1] - [Phone Number]
• [Emergency Contact 2] - [Phone Number]
• [Emergency Contact 3] - [Phone Number]

11. Incident Reporting and Investigation

Report all incidents, near-misses, and hazards to the supervisor immediately. An investigation will be conducted to determine the root cause of the incident and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence.

12. References and Related Documents

• Safety and Health Regulations for Construction (OSHA) 1, 7
• Rules for the Administration of the Oregon Safe Employment Act (General Occupational Safety and Health, Division 2, OSHA Oregon) 2, 6, 8, 13, 15, 16, 18, 20
• Rules for the Administration of the Oregon Safe Employment Act (Construction, Division 3, OSHA Oregon) 3, 5, 10, 11, 12, 14, 17, 19
• Kobelco SK235SR-2, SK235SRLC-2 Operation Manual [7]
• Safety Standards for General Safety and Health Standards (Chaper 296-24 WAC) [8]

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Approved by: [NAME AND POSITION] Date: [APPROVAL DATE]

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