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 [specify work environments, e.g., residential, commercial, or industrial settings]. It covers surface preparation, sanding, painting, and cleanup activities to minimize potential hazards and ensure a safe working environment. This procedure applies to all workers involved in sanding and painting drywall.

2. Definitions

Drywall: A panel made of gypsum plaster pressed between two thick sheets of paper, used for interior walls and ceilings.

Sanding: The process of smoothing drywall surfaces using abrasive materials.

Painting: The application of paint or other coatings to drywall surfaces for decoration and protection.

PPE: Personal Protective Equipment.

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

Ensure all workers are trained and competent in the safe work procedures for sanding and painting drywall.
Provide the necessary PPE and ensure it is used correctly.
Conduct regular site inspections to identify and control hazards.
Enforce all safety rules and procedures.

3.2 Workers

Follow all safe work procedures and instructions.
Use required PPE properly and maintain it in good condition.
Report any hazards or unsafe conditions to the supervisor immediately.
Participate in pre-job briefings and safety meetings.

3.3 Health and Safety Representative

Assist in the development and review of safe work procedures.
Conduct safety audits and inspections.
Investigate incidents and recommend corrective actions.
Provide guidance and support to workers on health and safety matters.

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Inhalation of dust particles (crystalline silica, gypsum)	Respiratory irritation, silicosis, lung damage, cancer	Use a NIOSH-approved respirator or dust mask 2, 7, 8, 9, 10, 13, 18. Ensure adequate ventilation 2, 5, 7, 8, 9, 18. Use dust extraction equipment during sanding.
Skin contact with drywall compounds or paint	Skin irritation, dermatitis	Wear gloves and protective clothing 1, 7, 8, 9, 10, 18. Wash hands thoroughly after contact 3, 7, 9, 13, 18.
Eye contact with dust or paint splashes	Eye irritation, eye damage	Wear safety goggles or face shield 1, 7, 8, 9, 10, 13, 18.
Exposure to harmful chemicals in paint (e.g., formaldehyde)	Respiratory irritation, skin sensitization, cancer	Use paints with low VOC content. Ensure adequate ventilation 2, 5, 7, 8, 9, 18. Wear appropriate respiratory protection.
Slips, trips, and falls	Injuries	Keep work area clean and free of obstructions. Use appropriate footwear. Clean up spills immediately.
Fire hazards from flammable paints or solvents	Burns, property damage	Store flammable materials in approved containers. Ensure adequate ventilation 2, 5, 7, 8, 9, 18. Eliminate ignition sources. Have fire extinguishers readily available.
Ergonomic hazards (repetitive motions, awkward postures)	Musculoskeletal disorders	Take frequent breaks. Use proper tools and equipment. Rotate tasks to reduce repetitive motions.
Contact with electrical wiring	Electrocution, burns	Ensure power is shut off and locked out before working near electrical wiring. Use non-conductive tools.

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Always use the appropriate PPE for the task 7, 14.

Respirator/Dust Mask: A NIOSH-approved N95 or higher respirator is required when sanding to prevent inhalation of dust particles 2, 7, 8, 9, 10, 13, 18. Ensure it fits properly and is in good condition.
Safety Glasses/Goggles: Wear safety glasses or goggles to protect eyes from dust and paint splashes 1, 7, 8, 9, 10, 13, 18.
Gloves: Wear chemical-resistant gloves to protect skin from drywall compounds and paints 1, 7, 8, 9, 10, 18.
Protective Clothing: Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants to minimize skin exposure 1, 7, 8, 9, 10, 18.
Foot Protection: Wear sturdy work boots to protect feet from falling objects and slips.

Inspect PPE before each use for damage or defects. Replace damaged PPE immediately.

6. Equipment and Tools

Sanding Tools: Sanding pole, sanding sponge, or power sander with dust extraction [1].
Painting Tools: Paintbrushes, rollers, paint trays, and extension poles.
Ladders/Scaffolding: Use ladders or scaffolding to reach high areas safely.
Drop Cloths: Use drop cloths to protect floors and furniture from paint splatters.
Ventilation Equipment: Fans or portable ventilation systems to improve air circulation.

Inspect all equipment and tools before each use to ensure they are in good working condition. Remove any defective equipment from service.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

Workers must be trained and competent in the following areas:

Safe work procedures for sanding and painting drywall.
Proper use and maintenance of PPE.
Hazard identification and control.
Emergency procedures.

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

A pre-job briefing must be conducted before starting work to discuss:

The scope of the work.
Potential hazards and risks.
Control measures to be implemented.
Emergency procedures.
Any specific instructions or requirements.

7.3 Work Area Preparation

Ensure the work area is clean, well-lit, and free of obstructions.
Protect floors and furniture with drop cloths.
Provide adequate ventilation 2, 5, 7, 8, 9, 18.
Set up ladders or scaffolding safely.
Ensure all necessary tools and equipment are readily available.

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

8.1 Surface Preparation

Inspect the drywall surface for imperfections, such as holes, cracks, or unevenness.
Apply drywall compound to fill holes and cracks. Let it dry completely.
Use a taping knife to smooth the compound and create a seamless surface.
Sub-step 1.1: Ensure the drywall is clean and dry before starting.
Sub-step 1.2: Use appropriate joint compound for filling gaps.
Sub-step 1.3: Allow sufficient drying time before sanding.

Safety considerations: Avoid creating excessive dust during compound application.

8.2 Sanding

Wear a NIOSH-approved respirator or dust mask 2, 7, 8, 9, 10, 13, 18 and safety glasses/goggles 1, 7, 8, 9, 10, 13, 18.
Attach sandpaper to the sanding tool.
Sand the drywall surface using smooth, even strokes.
Use a sanding pole for high areas.
Use a damp sponge to wipe down the surface and remove dust.
Sub-step 2.1: Select the appropriate grit sandpaper for the desired finish.
Sub-step 2.2: Use dust extraction equipment if available.
Sub-step 2.3: Avoid over-sanding, which can damage the drywall paper.

Safety considerations: Sanding and grinding dusts may be harmful if inhaled [1]. This product contains crystalline silica which can cause lung cancer or silicosis [1]. The risk of cancer depends on the duration and level of exposure to dust from sanding surfaces or mist from spray applications [1].

8.3 Painting

Stir the paint thoroughly before use.
Apply a primer coat to the drywall surface.
Let the primer dry completely.
Apply the first coat of paint using a brush or roller.
Let the first coat dry completely.
Apply a second coat of paint for better coverage.
Sub-step 3.1: Choose the right type of paint for the environment (e.g., moisture-resistant paint for bathrooms).
Sub-step 3.2: Apply paint in a well-ventilated area 2, 5, 7, 8, 9, 18.
Sub-step 3.3: Clean brushes and rollers immediately after use.

Safety considerations: Some paints may contain harmful chemicals. Refer to the product's safety data sheet (SDS) for specific hazards and precautions.

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation 2, 5, 7, 8, 9, 18 to minimize exposure to dust and paint fumes. - Open windows and doors or use fans to circulate air.
Dust Control: Use dust extraction equipment during sanding to minimize airborne dust particles. - Wet the surface lightly before sanding to reduce dust.
Housekeeping: Keep the work area clean and free of debris. - Clean up spills immediately.
Material Storage: Store paints, solvents, and other flammable materials in approved containers and in a well-ventilated area.
Electrical Safety: Inspect power tools and equipment for damage before use. - Use ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) when working near water.

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

Inhalation of Dust or Fumes: Move to fresh air immediately. If breathing is difficult, administer oxygen or artificial respiration. Seek medical attention 11, 12, 17.
Skin Contact: Wash affected area with soap and water. If irritation persists, seek medical attention 11, 12, 17.
Eye Contact: Flush eyes with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. Seek immediate medical attention 11, 12, 17.
Fire: Activate the fire alarm and evacuate the area. Use a fire extinguisher to put out the fire if it is safe to do so.

10.3 Emergency Contact Information

Emergency Services: 911
Poison Control Center: 1-800-222-1222
[Company Safety Department 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.

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