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, alteration, and repair projects. It applies to all workers involved in these tasks, ensuring a safe working environment and compliance with OSHA regulations [1], particularly those concerning lead exposure in construction [2].

This SWP is applicable in all construction areas, aisles, stairs, ramps, runways, corridors, offices, shops, and storage areas where drywall sanding and painting are in progress [3].

This SWP should be used in conjunction with the manufacturer's instructions for the safe use of equipment and materials, relevant OSHA standards, and company-specific safety policies.

2. Definitions

PEL (Permissible Exposure Limit): The maximum amount or concentration of a chemical that a worker may be exposed to under OSHA regulations [4].

HEPA Filter: A high-efficiency particulate air filter that captures airborne particles with high efficiency [5].

PPE (Personal Protective Equipment): Equipment worn to minimize exposure to hazards, such as respirators, gloves, and eye protection [6].

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

• Ensure that all workers are properly trained and competent to perform drywall sanding and painting tasks [1].
• Conduct regular inspections of the job site to identify and correct hazards [1].
• Enforce the use of required PPE and adherence to safety procedures [1].
• Provide workers with the necessary equipment and materials in good working condition [1].
• Ensure that all workers have access to and understand this SWP [7].

3.2 Workers

• Follow all safety procedures outlined in this SWP and other relevant documents [8].
• Use required PPE properly and report any defects or damage [6].
• Participate in pre-job briefings and ask questions if unsure about any aspect of the task [7].
• Report any hazards, incidents, or near-misses to the supervisor immediately [8].
• Maintain good housekeeping practices to prevent accumulation of dust and debris [3].

3.3 Health and Safety Representative

• Assist in the development and review of this SWP [7].
• Conduct workplace hazard assessments and recommend appropriate control measures [6].
• Investigate incidents and near-misses related to drywall sanding and painting [7].
• Provide guidance and support to supervisors and workers on health and safety matters [7].

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Proper PPE must be worn at all times during drywall sanding and painting activities to minimize exposure to hazards 2, 17.

• Respirator - Use a NIOSH-approved respirator with appropriate filters (e.g., N95, P100) to protect against airborne dust and lead particles. Ensure proper fit and conduct fit testing 1, 5.
• Safety Glasses/Goggles - Wear safety glasses or goggles to protect eyes from dust and debris [6].
• Gloves - Use chemical-resistant gloves to prevent skin contact with paint and solvents [6].
• Protective Clothing - Wear disposable coveralls or washable work clothes to protect skin from dust and paint. Change clothes after each shift or when heavily contaminated [6].
• Hearing Protection - Use earplugs or earmuffs when using noisy equipment such as power sanders [6].

Inspect all PPE before use for damage or defects. Replace damaged PPE immediately. Clean and maintain PPE according to manufacturer's instructions [6].

6. Equipment and Tools

Only use equipment and tools that are in good working condition and suitable for the task [1].

• Hand Sander/Pole Sander - Used for manual sanding of drywall surfaces. Ensure sanding pads are properly attached and in good condition.
• Power Sander (e.g., Orbital Sander) - Used for faster sanding of drywall surfaces. Ensure dust collection system is functioning properly.
• HEPA Filter Vacuum - Used to clean up dust and debris. Ensure the filter is clean and in good condition 5, 20.
• Paint Brushes/Rollers - Used for applying paint to drywall surfaces. Select the appropriate brush or roller for the type of paint being used.
• Paint Sprayer - Used for applying paint to drywall surfaces. Ensure proper ventilation and respiratory protection are in place.
• Ladders/Scaffolding - Used to reach high areas. Inspect for stability and ensure they are placed on a level surface [3].

Inspect all equipment and tools before each use. Remove any defective equipment from service. Follow manufacturer's instructions for proper use and maintenance 10, 11, 12.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

• Workers must be trained in the proper use of sanding and painting equipment [1].
• Workers must be trained on hazard communication, including the hazards of lead and asbestos 3, 19.
• Workers must be trained on the proper selection, use, and maintenance of PPE [6].
• Supervisors must be trained in hazard recognition and control [1].

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

• Conduct a pre-job briefing with all workers involved to discuss the scope of work, potential hazards, and safety procedures [7].
• Review this SWP and ensure all workers understand their roles and responsibilities [7].
• Discuss emergency procedures and contact information [7].
• Identify any specific concerns or questions raised by workers [7].

7.3 Work Area Preparation

• Ensure the work area is well-lit and ventilated [3].
• Remove any obstructions or tripping hazards from the work area [3].
• Protect surfaces not being sanded or painted with drop cloths or plastic sheeting [3].
• Set up a designated area for cleaning and storing equipment [3].
• Ensure that appropriate waste containers are available for disposal of used materials [3].

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

8.1 Preparation

• Inspect the drywall surface for any damage or imperfections [1].

• Ensure adequate lighting and ventilation in the work area [3].

• Set up dust collection systems and ensure they are functioning properly [5].

• Sub-step 8.1.1: Don appropriate PPE, including respirator, safety glasses, gloves, and protective clothing [6].

• Sub-step 8.1.2: Cover and protect any areas not being worked on [3].

• Sub-step 8.1.3: Set up ladders or scaffolding safely to reach high areas [3].

Safety Considerations: Ensure proper ventilation to minimize dust exposure. Use appropriate respiratory protection. Secure ladders and scaffolding to prevent falls [3].

8.2 Sanding

• Select the appropriate grit sandpaper for the task [1].

• Use hand sander or power sander to smooth the drywall surface [1].

• Apply even pressure and avoid over-sanding [1].

• Sub-step 8.2.1: If using a power sander, ensure dust collection system is attached and functioning [5].

• Sub-step 8.2.2: If sanding lead-based paint, follow lead-safe work practices 1, 19, 20.

• Sub-step 8.2.3: Use wet sanding techniques to minimize dust generation, if appropriate [5].

Safety Considerations: Avoid creating excessive dust. Use proper sanding techniques to prevent damage to the drywall. If lead-based paint is suspected, take appropriate precautions 1, 19, 20.

8.3 Painting

• Stir paint thoroughly before use [1].

• Apply paint evenly using a brush, roller, or sprayer [1].

• Allow paint to dry completely before applying a second coat [1].

• Sub-step 8.3.1: If using a paint sprayer, ensure proper ventilation and respiratory protection [6].

• Sub-step 8.3.2: Avoid over-spraying and creating excessive fumes [6].

• Sub-step 8.3.3: Clean brushes and rollers immediately after use [1].

Safety Considerations: Ensure proper ventilation to avoid inhaling paint fumes. Use appropriate respiratory protection when spraying paint. Store paint and solvents in approved containers [3].

8.4 Clean-Up

• Vacuum all surfaces with a HEPA filter vacuum to remove dust and debris 5, 20.

• Dispose of used sandpaper, rags, and other waste materials properly 13, 14, 15, 18.

• Clean all equipment and tools and store them in a designated area 10, 11, 12.

• Sub-step 8.4.1: If lead-based paint was sanded, dispose of waste materials as hazardous waste according to local, state, and federal regulations 1, 19, 20.

• Sub-step 8.4.2: Remove and launder or dispose of protective clothing [9].

• Sub-step 8.4.3: Wash hands and face thoroughly with soap and water [9].

Safety Considerations: Prevent dust and debris from becoming airborne during clean-up. Dispose of hazardous waste properly. Maintain good personal hygiene 13, 14, 15, 18, 20.

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

• Dust Control: Use HEPA filter vacuums and wet sanding techniques to minimize airborne dust 5, 20.
• Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation in the work area to reduce exposure to dust and fumes 5, 17.
• Respiratory Protection: Wear appropriate respirators to protect against airborne dust and lead particles 1, 2.
• Eye Protection: Wear safety glasses or goggles to protect eyes from dust and debris [6].
• Hygiene Practices: Wash hands and face thoroughly after sanding and painting [9].
• Lead Safety: If lead-based paint is suspected, follow lead-safe work practices, including lead exposure assessment, proper PPE, and waste disposal 1, 19, 20.
• Fire Prevention: Store flammable materials in approved containers and eliminate ignition sources [3].
• Electrical Safety: Use tools with GFCI protection and inspect tools for damage [1].
• Housekeeping: Keep work areas clean and dry to prevent slips, trips, and falls [3].

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

• In the event of an emergency, immediately stop work and assess the situation [7].
• Evacuate the area if necessary [7].
• Call for emergency assistance (911) if needed [7].
• Provide first aid to injured personnel [7].

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

• Inhalation of Dust or Fumes: Move to fresh air and seek medical attention if symptoms persist [7].
• Eye Contact: Flush eyes with water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical attention [7].
• Skin Contact: Wash affected area with soap and water. Seek medical attention if irritation persists [7].
• Fire: Activate fire alarm and evacuate the area. Use a fire extinguisher to put out the fire if it is small and contained [3].

10.3 Emergency Contact Information

• Emergency Medical 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 [8].

An investigation will be conducted to determine the root cause of the incident and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence [7].

12. References and Related Documents

• OSHA 29 CFR 1926 - Safety and Health Regulations for Construction 1, 6, 17, 19, 20
• OSHA 29 CFR 1910 - Occupational Safety and Health Standards 2, 3, 4
• Manufacturer's instructions for equipment and materials 10, 11, 12

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

Safety powered by SALUS