Painters · varnishers · floor layers

Operating Instruction Painter – for paints, thinners, hardeners

Paint and varnish businesses work with solvents, reactive paints, hardeners, thinners and fillers. Depending on the product, flammability, health hazards or sensitisation need assessment; use the current SDS classification. MeineGBU generates workplace-specific draft operating instructions from the SDS.

Per draft: 10 safety coins · Suitable one-time pack: €99.

Typical paints and thinners

  • Solvent-based paints (toluene, xylene, ethyl acetate)
  • 2K paints with isocyanate hardener: H334 (respiratory sensitization)
  • Water-based paints: usually low classified, watch for preservatives
  • Thinners and cleaners: highly flammable, narcotic
  • Anti-corrosion primer with zinc dust
  • Fillers with polyester or epoxy resin

Skin and respiratory protection: central topics

Skin eczema is the most common occupational disease for painters. The operating instruction must include the concrete skin protection plan (pre-, protective, post-treatment).

Respiratory protection is mandatory when spray painting – usually A2P3 filter or air-supplied. The instruction names the exact filter class from the SDS.

Storage is also critical: paint cabinets, fire class, maximum permissible quantity in the workspace. Check and supplement the information for your actual storage arrangements; the SDS alone does not describe all workplace conditions.

MeineGBU prepares an editable DOCX draft on the MeineGBU platform. The SDS is one information source; the actual activity, risk assessment and competent review determine the instruction approved for your workplace.

Frequently asked questions

Is one instruction enough for all 2K-PUR paints?

If all components use the same hardener (e.g. HDI trimer) and have comparable pigmentation, a collective instruction may be permitted. With changing hardeners or different pollutant classes, each paint needs its own instruction.

What must an operating instruction contain?

Section 14 GefStoffV specifies substance and hazard information, protective measures, and responses to incidents and emergencies. TRGS 555 explains the structure, including work area and activity, first aid and disposal. The workplace risk assessment determines the specific content.

Is one operating instruction per substance group enough?

Group instructions may be suitable where hazards and protective measures are comparable. Check the risk assessment and TRGS 555 to determine whether a shared instruction covers the actual activities.