Paint information on health and the environment from the Paint Quality Institute UK

Preventative measures for human health:
To reduce the potential hazards of painting, here are some useful do’s and don’ts:

DO’s:
	Consider using water-based paints. Water-based paints are increasingly used across a broad range of surfaces. They offer excellent performance benefits, are more environmentally-friendly and contain very low levels of solvents.
	Always take note of any cautions or potential dangers indicated on the paint can, and take the appropriate preventative action.
	Always remember to use protective equipment especially eye-goggles and a face mask to cover the mouth and nose.
	Take precautions when handling and storing solvents.
	Wash your hands after use.
	Remember to ensure adequate ventilation in rooms you are painting – open windows and doors wherever possible.

DON’Ts:
	Avoid exposure to solvents as much as you can.
	Never smoke when handling solvents.
	Solvents are highly flammable – never expose solvents to an open flame.
	Keep children away from areas you are painting.

Protecting the environment:

Water-based paints are more environmentally friendly than solvent-based alternatives, and so wherever possible should be given serious consideration.

DO’s:
	Consider high quality water-based paints as an option for your job – they are more environmentally friendly and offer an excellent all-round performance profile.
	Always take care to follow the precautions indicated on the can.
	Try to buy exactly as much paint as your job requires – so disposal is not an issue.
	If you do have some paint left, try to find some use for it – maybe apply another coat, or offer it to friends or relatives.
	To store paint for the future, make sure the lid is on tightly – this prevents air and dirt getting in, and helps the paint last longer.
	Contact your local authority for guidance on safe disposal of paint – many have schemes for this purpose.
	If you have to clean tools with a solvent, try to re-use the solvent as many times as possible for cleaning.

DON’Ts:
	Never pour leftover paint down the drain.
	Never put leftover liquid paint in with your other waste.