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, industrial settings]. It applies to all workers involved in the preparation and finishing of drywall surfaces using manual or power sanding tools and various types of paints. This SWP covers surface preparation, sanding techniques, painting application, cleanup, and waste disposal. It does not cover the installation or repair of drywall, which requires a separate SWP.

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 a liquid coating to a surface for protection and decoration.

PPE: Personal Protective Equipment.

NIOSH: National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health.

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

Ensure all workers are trained and competent in the safe operation of sanding and painting equipment.
Conduct pre-job briefings to discuss potential hazards and control measures.
Ensure that all workers have access to and use the required PPE.
Monitor work activities to ensure compliance with this SWP.
Ensure adequate ventilation is provided in the work area.

3.2 Workers

Participate in training and pre-job briefings.
Inspect PPE and equipment before use and report any defects.
Use required PPE at all times while performing sanding and painting tasks.
Follow the safe work procedures outlined in this SWP.
Report any hazards, incidents, or near-misses to the supervisor immediately.
Maintain good personal hygiene practices [1].

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 and recommend corrective actions.

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Dust Inhalation	Respiratory irritation, coughing, potential long-term respiratory issues (e.g., silicosis) [2]	Use a NIOSH-approved respirator, provide adequate ventilation, use wet sanding or vacuum sanding practices 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 10, 11, 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 19
Eye Contact	Eye irritation, chemical burns [3]	Wear approved safety goggles or face shield 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 11, 13, 15, 17, 19
Skin Contact	Skin irritation, dermatitis	Wear suitable protective gloves and long-sleeved clothing 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 11, 13, 15, 16, 19
Slips, Trips, and Falls	Injuries from falls	Keep work area clean and free of obstructions, clean up spills immediately, use appropriate footwear
Chemical Exposure (Paints, Solvents)	Irritation, respiratory issues, skin absorption	Use paints and solvents in well-ventilated areas, wear appropriate gloves and respirators, follow manufacturer's instructions
Ergonomic Hazards	Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs)	Use proper lifting techniques, take frequent breaks, rotate tasks
Fire Hazards (Flammable paints/solvents)	Burns, explosions	Store flammable materials in approved containers, keep away from ignition sources, ensure adequate ventilation, have fire extinguishers readily available
Contact with Acids, Water and Moisture	Material degradation 1, 4, 7, 8, 10, 12, 13, 16	Store materials in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place 1, 4, 7, 8, 10, 12, 13, 16

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Always use proper PPE.

Respirator: NIOSH-approved respirator to prevent inhalation of dust particles 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 10, 11, 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 19. Select the appropriate type of respirator based on the level of dust exposure and follow OSHA 1910.134 and ANSI Z88.2 requirements 3, 5, 11, 13, 15, 17.
Eye Protection: Safety goggles or face shield to protect eyes from dust and splashes 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 11, 13, 15, 17, 19. Ensure proper fit and seal.
Hand Protection: Chemical-resistant gloves to prevent skin contact with paints and solvents 3, 5, 6, 11, 13, 15, 16, 19. Inspect gloves for tears or punctures before use.
Skin Protection: Long-sleeved shirts and long pants to minimize skin exposure 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 11, 13, 16.
Foot Protection: Safety shoes or work boots to protect feet from falling objects and slips.

Inspect PPE before each use for damage. Replace damaged PPE immediately. Clean and store PPE properly after each use.

6. Equipment and Tools

Always use proper equipment and tools.

Sanding Tools: Sanding blocks, pole sanders, orbital sanders. Ensure sanding tools are in good working condition.
Sandpaper: Various grits of sandpaper for different stages of sanding.
Painting Tools: Paint brushes, rollers, paint sprayers. Select the appropriate tools for the type of paint and surface.
Paint: Use paints appropriate for interior use and follow manufacturer's instructions.
Ladders/Scaffolding: Use ladders or scaffolding to reach high areas safely. Ensure ladders are placed on a stable surface and scaffolding is properly assembled.
Drop Cloths: Use drop cloths to protect floors and furniture from paint splatters.
Ventilation Equipment: Fans or portable ventilation units to improve air circulation.

Inspect all equipment and tools before use. Remove any defective equipment from service. Maintain equipment according to manufacturer's instructions.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

Workers must be trained and competent in the safe use of sanding and painting equipment.
Workers must be trained on the hazards of dust inhalation and chemical exposure.
Workers must be trained on the proper use and maintenance of PPE.

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

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

7.3 Work Area Preparation

Ensure the work area is clean and free of obstructions.
Provide adequate ventilation to minimize dust and chemical exposure 3, 5, 11, 13, 15, 17.
Cover floors and furniture with drop cloths to protect from paint splatters.
Set up ladders or scaffolding safely to reach high areas.
Ensure adequate lighting is available.

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

8.1 Surface Preparation

Inspect the drywall surface for imperfections, such as nail holes or cracks.
Apply joint compound to fill imperfections and allow to dry completely.
Scrape off any excess joint compound with a taping knife.
Ensure the surface is clean and dry before sanding.
Sub-step 1.1: Visually inspect the drywall for any damage or imperfections.
Sub-step 1.2: Use a taping knife to apply joint compound to fill nail holes, cracks, and seams.
Sub-step 1.3: Allow the joint compound to dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Safety considerations: Avoid creating dust during surface preparation. Wear appropriate PPE.

8.2 Sanding

Select the appropriate grit of sandpaper for the task.
Attach the sandpaper to the sanding block or power sander.
Sand the drywall surface using smooth, even strokes.
Avoid applying excessive pressure, which can damage the drywall paper.
Use a vacuum or wet cloth to remove dust from the surface frequently 3, 6.
Sub-step 2.1: Select the appropriate grit of sandpaper (e.g., 120-grit for initial sanding, 220-grit for final sanding).
Sub-step 2.2: Attach the sandpaper to the sanding tool (block, pole sander, or orbital sander).
Sub-step 2.3: Sand the surface with smooth, even strokes, using light pressure.

Safety considerations: Wear a NIOSH-approved respirator, safety goggles, and gloves during sanding 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 10, 11, 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 19. Use dust collection methods to minimize airborne dust 3, 6.

8.3 Painting

Stir the paint thoroughly before use.
Apply paint to the drywall surface using a brush, roller, or sprayer.
Apply thin, even coats of paint to avoid drips and runs.
Allow each coat of paint to dry completely before applying the next coat.
Clean painting tools with appropriate solvents after use.
Sub-step 3.1: Stir the paint thoroughly to ensure even consistency.
Sub-step 3.2: Apply the first coat of paint using a brush, roller, or sprayer, using smooth, even strokes.
Sub-step 3.3: Allow the first coat to dry completely before applying a second coat.

Safety considerations: Ensure adequate ventilation when painting. Wear appropriate gloves and eye protection. If using a sprayer, wear a respirator 3, 5, 11, 13, 15, 17.

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

Dust Control: Use wet sanding or vacuum sanding methods to minimize dust generation 3, 6.
Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation in the work area 3, 5, 11, 13, 15, 17.
PPE Use: Always wear required PPE, including respirators, safety goggles, and gloves 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 11, 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 19.
Chemical Handling: Follow manufacturer's instructions for handling and storing paints and solvents.
Housekeeping: Keep the work area clean and free of obstructions 9, 20.
Hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly after handling materials and before eating, drinking, or smoking 1, 4, 5, 7, 8, 10, 12, 13, 16, 19, 20.

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.
Provide first aid to injured workers.
Contact emergency services if required.

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

Dust Inhalation: Move to fresh air immediately. Seek medical attention if breathing difficulties persist [3].
Eye Contact: Flush eyes with cold tap water for at least 15 minutes. Seek medical attention immediately [3].
Skin Contact: Wash affected area with soap and water. Seek medical attention if irritation persists [3].
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 9, 20.

10.3 Emergency Contact Information

Emergency Services: 911
[Company Safety Officer]: [Phone Number]
[Local Hospital]: [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]