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 steps for safely sanding and painting drywall in construction and maintenance settings. It includes hazard identification, risk control measures, required PPE, and safe work practices to minimize the risk of injury or illness. This procedure applies to all workers involved in sanding and painting drywall. It does not cover work on drywall containing asbestos or lead-based paint; specialized procedures are required for those materials.

2. Definitions

Drywall A gypsum-based material 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. HEPA Vacuum Equipment used to remove dust from the air and surfaces.

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

Ensure workers are trained and competent in sanding and painting drywall.
Provide all necessary PPE and ensure it is in good condition.
Enforce all safety procedures and address any unsafe acts or conditions.
Conduct regular site inspections to identify and correct hazards.

3.2 Workers

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

3.3 Health and Safety Representative

Participate in the development and review of safe work procedures.
Assist in hazard identification and risk assessment.
Monitor compliance with health and safety regulations.
Investigate incidents and recommend corrective actions.

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Inhalation of drywall dust	Respiratory irritation, silicosis	Use a HEPA vacuum to remove dust. Wear a respirator. Ensure adequate ventilation.
Eye contact with dust or paint	Eye irritation, corneal abrasion	Wear safety glasses or goggles. Use dust extraction tools.
Skin contact with paint or chemicals	Skin irritation, dermatitis	Wear gloves. Use a barrier cream. Avoid prolonged skin contact.
Falls from heights	Fractures, sprains, head injuries	Use a ladder or scaffold that is in good condition. Ensure proper footing and stability. Maintain three points of contact.
Repetitive motion	Musculoskeletal disorders	Use tools with ergonomic handles. Take frequent breaks. Rotate tasks.
Electrical shock	Burns, electrocution	Ensure proper grounding. Use GFCI-protected outlets. Inspect cords for damage.
Fire hazards	Burns, explosions	Store flammable materials in approved containers. Ensure adequate ventilation. Eliminate ignition sources.

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

The following personal protective equipment (PPE) is required when sanding and painting drywall:

Respirator (N95 or higher): Provides respiratory protection against drywall dust and paint fumes. Ensure it is properly fitted and maintained.
Safety Glasses or Goggles: Protects eyes from dust and debris. Ensure they fit properly and provide adequate coverage. [2] [3]
Gloves: Protects hands from skin irritation and chemical exposure. Select appropriate gloves for the specific paint or chemicals being used.
Protective Clothing (e.g., Coveralls): Protects clothing from dust and paint splatters. Choose disposable or washable options.
Hard Hat (if required): Provides head protection in case of falling objects or bumps. Wear CSA certified personal protective equipment, including: Head protection when working under branches or where there may be falling objects. [4]

Inspect all PPE before each use for damage or defects. Clean and maintain PPE according to manufacturer's instructions. Replace damaged or defective PPE immediately. Store PPE in a clean, dry place when not in use.

6. Equipment and Tools

The following equipment and tools are required for sanding and painting drywall:

Sanding Tool (Manual or Power): Used for sanding drywall surfaces. Ensure proper dust extraction is in place.
Taping Knives: Used for applying joint compound to drywall seams and imperfections.
Mixing Tubs and Sticks: Used for mixing joint compound and paint.
Paint Brushes, Rollers, and Sprayers: Used for applying paint to drywall surfaces.
Ladder or Scaffold: Used for reaching high areas. Ensure it is stable and in good condition.
HEPA Vacuum: Used for removing dust from surfaces and the air. Ensure it is equipped with a HEPA filter.

Inspect all tools and equipment before each use for damage or defects. Ensure power tools have guards in place and are functioning correctly. Remove any damaged or defective equipment from service. Keep cutting equipment sharp so they will work properly. Follow good housekeeping procedures - clean up spills quickly; empty waste containers often; discard oily rags and other flammable waste materials safely.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

Training and Competency: Workers must be trained and competent in the safe use of sanding and painting equipment, as well as the hazards associated with drywall dust and paint. Training should include proper use of PPE, safe work practices, and emergency procedures. New workers should be briefed to ensure they understand the rules applicable to their work. [1]

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

Pre-Job Briefing: Conduct a pre-job briefing with all workers involved to discuss the scope of work, potential hazards, and control measures. Review the safe work procedure and ensure everyone understands their roles and responsibilities.

7.3 Work Area Preparation

Work Area Preparation: Ensure the work area is clean, well-lit, and free of obstructions. Cover floors and furniture with drop cloths to protect them from dust and paint. Provide adequate ventilation to minimize dust and fume exposure.

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

Prepare the Work Area: Set up the work area by covering floors and furniture with drop cloths. Ensure adequate ventilation.
Don PPE: Wear appropriate PPE, including a respirator, safety glasses, gloves, and protective clothing.
Sanding Drywall: Attach sandpaper to the sanding tool. Use a HEPA vacuum to extract dust while sanding.
Inspect and Re-sand: Inspect the sanded surface for imperfections. Apply additional coats of joint compound if necessary and repeat sanding.
Clean the Surface: Clean the sanded surface with a tack cloth to remove any remaining dust.
Apply Primer: Apply primer to the drywall surface. Allow it to dry completely.
Apply First Coat of Paint: Apply the first coat of paint using a brush, roller, or sprayer. Allow it to dry completely.
Apply Second Coat of Paint: Apply a second coat of paint for uniform coverage. Allow it to dry completely.
Clean Up: Clean all tools and equipment after use. Dispose of waste materials properly.
Final Inspection: Remove drop cloths and inspect the finished surface. Touch up any imperfections.

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

Never eat, drink, or smoke in the work area to avoid ingestion of dust or chemicals.
Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling drywall, paint, or chemicals.
Use a HEPA vacuum to clean up dust and debris regularly.
Store paint and chemicals in a secure location, away from heat and ignition sources.
Ensure all electrical equipment is properly grounded and in good working condition.

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

In the event of a fire, activate the nearest fire alarm, evacuate the area, and follow the emergency evacuation plan.

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

Eye contact with dust or paint.: Flush eyes with water for at least 20 minutes. Seek medical attention if irritation persists.
Inhalation of excessive dust or fumes.: Move to fresh air immediately. Seek medical attention if breathing difficulties occur.
Skin contact with paint or chemicals.: Wash affected area with soap and water. Seek medical attention if irritation or rash develops.

10.3 Emergency Contact Information

In case of an emergency, contact the supervisor immediately. For serious injuries or incidents, call emergency services.

11. Incident Reporting and Investigation

Report all incidents, injuries, or near misses to the supervisor immediately. Complete an incident report form with all relevant details. Ensure the report includes the date, time, location, and description of the event, as well as any contributing factors or injuries.

Investigate all reported incidents to determine the root cause and contributing factors. The investigation team should include a supervisor, safety representative, and worker representative. Develop and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence. Document the investigation findings and corrective actions taken.

Approved by: [NAME AND POSITION]

Date: [APPROVAL DATE]