The health and wellness of your family and loved ones is of utmost importance, and the safest place for them should be your home. You take care to stay away from pollutants outside your home, so of course you want to be certain your home is free of dangerous pollutants, too. Interior paint is one area in your home that is prone to harboring toxic chemicals. If you are planning to start an indoor painting project, it’s important to understand how the quality of the paint you choose can affect your family’s well-being.
Volatile Organic Compounds
Paint can contain vapors that are harmful when inhaled. These vapors are known as volatile organic compounds, or VOCs. If a person inhales VOCs from paint they may experience eye irritation, dizziness, headaches and nausea. Anyone who has long-term exposure to these vapors may suffer serious health problems, such as kidney or liver damage. Pregnant women, children and people with respiratory problems are all at higher risk when exposed to VOCs.
Before you paint
There are steps you can take to protect yourself and your family from being exposed to harmful paint fumes. Follow these guidelines before you begin your next indoor paint project:
1. Whenever possible choose water-based paint over oil-based paint.
2. Purchase paint with low or 0% VOC levels.
3. Carefully read the label. Just because paint contains low VOCs or even no VOCs doesn’t mean it is entirely safe. It may still have toxic ingredients.
4. Never spray paint indoors.
5. Never use exterior paint inside.
While you paint
Now that you have your paint and are ready to begin, use these tips to stay safe throughout the project:
1. Paint with the windows open. Set a fan in the window to pull the paint-infused air outside.
2. If the label recommends safety gear, be sure to use it. Gloves and goggles are always a safe bet to have on hand.
3. Take breaks to step outside and fill your lungs with fresh air.
4. Pregnant women and children should be kept out of freshly painted rooms.
5. If you’re using oil-based paint, you’ll want to take extra safety measures. Oil-based paint is highly flammable. Get rid of all sources of sparks and never smoke near wet oil-based paint.
6. Paint cans should be firmly closed when not being used. Rags should also be kept in closed containers until they can be disposed.
After you paint
Now that the project is complete, take these steps to ensure you and your family stay safe and healthy:
1. Newly painted rooms should be ventilated for at least two days.
2. Pregnant women and children should stay out of freshly painted areas for at least 24 hours. Even when paint is dry it can still emit vapors for a few days.
For more expert information about staying safe during indoor painting projects contact Painting Dublin at 086 608 1817 or 085 139 0233.
