COSHH Risk Assessment – Painting
Work
**Location:** [Site Name]
**Date:** 2025-07-17
**Assessment By:** [Your Name]
**Reviewed By:** [Supervisor Name]
**Next Review Date:** [Insert Date]
1. Substance Details
Substance Manufacturer Usage Form Hazard
Classification
Paint (Solvent- e.g. Jotun, Asian Surface coating Liquid Flammable,
based) Paints Irritant,
Harmful
Paint (Water- - Surface coating Liquid Low hazard
based) (still irritant)
Thinner / e.g. Xylene To thin paint Liquid Flammable,
Reducer Harmful,
Respiratory
irritant
Primer - Surface prep Liquid Flammable,
Skin irritant
Hardener / - Mixed with Liquid Corrosive,
Catalyst paint Harmful
2. Route of Entry
- Inhalation (fumes/vapors)
- Skin contact
- Eye contact
- Ingestion (accidental)
3. Hazards Identified
Hazard Risk
Inhalation of solvent fumes Headache, dizziness, respiratory irritation
Skin contact Dermatitis, allergic reaction
Eye contact Irritation, possible vision damage
Fire/explosion Due to flammable vapors
Environmental contamination Paint or thinner spills reaching drains or
soil
4. People at Risk
- Painters
- Helpers
- Nearby workers
- Visitors
- Environment
5. Existing Controls
- Use of PPE:
- Respiratory protection (cartridge mask for organic vapors)
- Gloves (nitrile or neoprene)
- Safety goggles or face shield
- Coveralls (chemical resistant)
- Ventilation: Adequate natural ventilation or use of exhaust fans
- Safe storage of substances (bunded area, flammables cabinet)
- MSDS available on site for each substance
- No ignition sources in work area
- Proper labeling and sealing of containers
- Spill kits available
6. Risk Rating (Before Control)
Likelihood: 4 (Likely)
Severity: 4 (Major injury)
**Risk Level: High**
7. Additional Controls Required
- Use water-based or low-VOC paints where possible
- Ensure fire extinguisher (foam/CO₂) is nearby
- Conduct painting in designated, well-ventilated zones
- Regular air monitoring if in confined spaces
- Toolbox talks and COSHH training to all workers
- Environmental controls: bunds, absorbents
- Permit to work system for confined painting jobs
8. Risk Rating (After Control)
Likelihood: 2 (Unlikely)
Severity: 3 (Moderate)
**Risk Level: Medium (Acceptable with controls)**
9. Emergency Measures
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air, seek medical help if symptoms persist
- Skin contact: Wash with soap and water
- Eye contact: Rinse with plenty of water for 15 mins, seek medical attention
- Spills: Use absorbent material, dispose as hazardous waste
- Fire: Use CO₂ or foam extinguisher, raise alarm
10. Assessment Review
Reviewed By Date Comments