Excerpt From The Course
The use of various finishing products around the home or office can have drastic implications for our health.
Chemical Reactions
Many people would acknowledge that paints and other similar petrochemical based finishes have the potential to be harmful. They may not however, realise the extent of damage that these types of products are capable of, or that all paints, even water based paints can be detrimental to the health of those exposed to them.
The level of health risk posed can vary quite considerably from feelings of lethargy to a higher susceptibility to head colds, and extreme cases the development of asthmatic symptoms. Painters, above everyone else, are most at risk. They often develop a tolerance to the harsher smelling chemicals and in so doing are ignoring a basic warning mechanism of the human body: that of smell. The health risks for those exposed for long periods to organic solvents such as paint vapours are of considerable concern.
Lung Disease
Asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, and silicosis are all diseases of the lungs which can be brought about from exposure to certain toxic chemicals. The problem of the lungs developing sensitivity to a particular irritant can mean that even small exposures to the offending allergen can trigger allergic reactions of debilitating proportions.
Cancer
There is enough scientific evidence available to suggest that exposure to paint can mean exposure to certain chemical carcinogens which in turn increases the risk of cancer in human beings.
Skin Diseases
Certain chemicals contain irritants which are responsible for causing contact dermatitis. The skin reacts upon contact and can result in itchiness, cracked and dry rashes, and/or blisters.
The extent to which chemicals can affect human health should not be underestimated even if no obvious signs of ill-health are visible. The danger may go as far as to affect unborn babies.
FINISHES
Furniture, floors, walls, roofs etc (exterior and interior) are treated with various types of products in order to seal a surface, preserve it, or to create an aesthetic effect. Many synthetic paints, sealants, varnishes, stains etc. have health problems associated with their use.
Paint
Paint is a solid material (i.e. a coloured powder or pigment) mixed into a liquid (e.g. oil or water). Other additives have often been mixed in for various reasons (e.g. to hasten drying, as a thinner, or to control insects). Natural additives are more often the safest alternatives (e.g. resins, oils, starches and waxes from plants).
Synthetic additives are often hazardous (e.g. insecticides or synthetic aromatic chemicals). Products which contain volatile chemicals (e.g. toluene, xylene and ketones) are hazardous. Older types of paints containing lead are a problem.
Varnishes and paints (epoxy types), contain hazardous phenols and synthetic resins. In a house fire many of these chemicals will give off poisonous gases.
The type of pigment used can also affect the hazard rating of a finish. Some pigments are relatively safe (especially those derived from plants such as natural fabric dyes). Natural pigments may often fade over time, but brighter mineral pigments may be more dangerous.
Anti-mould and Insecticide Additives
Many paints have anti-moulds and/or pesticides added to them. Before purchasing it is best to check whether the paint has these pre-added.
Acrylic Paint
Acrylic paints are water based, this means there is no need to use chemicals for clean up after painting. Cheap/trade versions contain vinyls to make it paint on easier. Vinyl outgases noxious chemicals and paint containing vinyls are less durable than those that are 100% acrylic.
Oil Paints
Traditionally indoor paints for walls were all oil based.Oil paint will continue to produce strong odours for long after it is used as they are much higher in VOC’s than other types. Thinners or other solvents are required for clean up.
Note that many newer paints on the market are Low (or no) VOC (volatiles organic chemicals). These are designed for consumers with chemical sensitivities and/or allergies.
No-VOC paints
There are now no-VOC paints available. These may be plant or clay based. As a consequence they often have limited ranges of colour.
Repainting
The process of removing an undesirable finish from a room to replace it with a safer alternative can in itself be hazardous.Dust created (or particles loosened) when removing hazardous material can easily be breathed in. The products used to remove old paint (or varnish etc) can also be dangerous. For example, turpentine (a natural product distilled from oils in certain pine trees) is a relatively safe solvent, but synthetic white spirit which is sold today as turpentine, is derived from petroleum and is a quite different product.
Whenever cleaning down old surfaces, ensure that the work area is well ventilated and wear safety gear including gloves and a mask. Do not work during excessive heat when sweat glands are wide open as this can result in extra absorption of toxins into the body. Do not undertake work when other people are nearby and clean up the area thoroughly immediately after completing the job (for large jobs, clean progressively throughout the job).
Many older houses still contain lead based paint. Lead based paint is only dangerous if it is chipped, flaking or during removal when it is damaged. Additionally it is dangerous if it is chewed upon (by children) or where two painted areas are in friction (ie: door jam). Anyone with an older house who is considering renovations should investigate safe removal.
