Painting and decorating may appear low-risk compared to heavy construction, but the trade presents significant hazards. Falls from ladders and platforms cause numerous injuries every year. Exposure to paints, solvents, and surface treatments can cause respiratory problems and skin conditions. Work in older buildings brings risks from lead paint and asbestos.
This guide covers the essential health and safety requirements for painters and decorators working in the UK.
The Legal Framework
Painting and decorating work is governed by several key pieces of legislation:
Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 - Places general duties on employers and the self-employed to ensure safety so far as reasonably practicable.
Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH) - Requires assessment and control of exposure to hazardous substances including paints, solvents, and surface treatments.
Work at Height Regulations 2005 - Applies whenever you could fall and injure yourself, including work from ladders, platforms, and access towers.
Control of Lead at Work Regulations 2002 - Specific requirements for work involving lead-based paints.
Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 - Applies when work could disturb asbestos-containing materials.
Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 - Applies to decoration work as part of construction or refurbishment projects.
COSHH - Hazardous Substances
Painters and decorators routinely use substances that can harm health. COSHH requires you to assess and control these exposures.
Common Hazardous Substances
| Product Type | Hazards | Key Controls |
|---|---|---|
| Solvent-based paints | Respiratory irritation, CNS effects, fire | Ventilation, LEV if enclosed, RPE, no ignition sources |
| Two-pack paints/coatings | Isocyanates (sensitisers), respiratory harm | LEV or RPE, avoid skin contact, health surveillance |
| Strippers and removers | Corrosive, toxic fumes, skin burns | Gloves, eye protection, ventilation, RPE |
| Wood preservatives | Toxic, skin irritation, environmental harm | Gloves, RPE, contain spillage, ventilation |
| Adhesives | Solvent vapours, skin sensitisation | Ventilation, gloves, avoid prolonged inhalation |
| Fillers and compounds | Dust when sanding, some contain hazardous components | Dust control, RPE, wet methods where possible |
| Cleaning solvents | Flammable, defatting of skin, vapour inhalation | Ventilation, gloves, keep away from flames |
COSHH Requirements
For each hazardous substance you use:
- Obtain information - Get the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) from the supplier
- Assess the risk - Consider who's exposed, how, and for how long
- Decide on controls - Ventilation, substitution, PPE
- Implement controls - Actually use them, don't just have them
- Monitor and review - Check controls are working
Hierarchy of Control
Apply controls in order of effectiveness:
- Eliminate - Can you avoid using the hazardous substance?
- Substitute - Can you use a less hazardous alternative? (water-based instead of solvent)
- Engineering controls - Ventilation, extraction
- Administrative controls - Reduce time exposure, rotate workers
- PPE - Last resort, not first choice
When working with solvent-based paints in confined indoor spaces, ventilation (natural or mechanical) should be the primary control. If adequate ventilation isn't possible, use RPE rated for organic vapours. Note that dust masks don't protect against solvent vapours.
Lead Paint
Lead-based paints were commonly used until the 1960s (some uses continued later). Disturbing these coatings can create serious lead exposure risks.
Where Lead Paint is Found
Common locations include:
- Pre-1960 buildings (interior and exterior)
- Older windows, doors, and woodwork
- Some industrial buildings (including newer ones)
- Metalwork and structural steel (some uses continued into the 1980s)
Health Effects of Lead
Lead exposure can cause:
- Abdominal pain and digestive problems
- Neurological effects (headaches, irritability, memory problems)
- Kidney damage
- Reproductive harm
- Chronic exposure causes cumulative damage
Legal Requirements
The Control of Lead at Work Regulations require:
- Assessment of lead exposure risk before work starts
- Prevention or control of exposure
- Air monitoring where significant exposure is likely
- Health surveillance (blood lead monitoring) for regular exposure
- Specific hygiene measures
Safe Working Practices
Identification:
- Assume paint in pre-1960 buildings may contain lead unless tested
- Test suspect paints before disturbing (kits available or laboratory analysis)
Controls for confirmed lead paint:
- Wet methods to suppress dust where possible
- Local exhaust ventilation or appropriate RPE
- Protective clothing, changed before leaving site
- No eating, drinking, or smoking in work areas
- Thorough washing before breaks and at end of day
- Proper waste disposal as hazardous waste
Methods to avoid:
- Dry sanding of lead paint
- Burning off lead paint with heat guns (creates lead fume)
- Using power tools without extraction
Lead Poisoning from Restoration Work
A decorator was contracted to restore windows in a Victorian property. He dry-sanded painted surfaces to prepare them for repainting, working in poorly ventilated conditions over several weeks. He developed increasing fatigue and abdominal discomfort.
Blood tests revealed elevated lead levels requiring medical intervention. The decorator was unable to work for several months. Investigation found no lead assessment had been done, no protective measures were in place, and no health surveillance had been arranged.
- •Always assess for lead before disturbing paint in older buildings
- •Dry sanding creates the highest exposure risk
- •Symptoms of lead poisoning may be gradual and non-specific
- •Health surveillance catches problems before serious harm occurs
Working at Height
Falls from height are a leading cause of injury in painting and decorating. Many incidents involve relatively low falls - even a fall from stepladders can cause serious injury.
When Regulations Apply
The Work at Height Regulations apply to any work where you could fall and injure yourself. This includes work from:
- Ladders and stepladders
- Mobile towers and scaffolding
- Platforms and stages
- Roofs and elevated surfaces
The Hierarchy
You must follow this hierarchy:
- Avoid working at height where reasonably practicable
- Prevent falls using appropriate equipment
- Minimise consequences where falls cannot be prevented
Ladder Safety
Ladders and stepladders are commonly used but have significant limitations:
When ladders are appropriate:
- Short-duration work (generally under 30 minutes)
- Light work not requiring both hands
- Where other equipment isn't reasonably practicable
Safe ladder use:
- Industrial grade ladders only (EN 131 Professional)
- Correct angle (75 degrees for leaning ladders)
- Secured at top or footed by another person
- Three points of contact when climbing
- Don't overreach - move the ladder instead
- Never stand on top three rungs
Stepladder safety:
- Fully open with spreaders locked
- On firm, level ground
- Both feet on the same step
- Don't stand on top platform unless designed for it
- Face the steps for any work above waist height
Mobile Access Towers
Towers are often more appropriate than ladders for sustained work:
- Provide a stable working platform
- Allow use of both hands
- Can be moved as work progresses
Requirements:
- Erect following manufacturer's instructions
- Use stabilisers/outriggers as specified
- Check firm, level ground before assembly
- Inspect before each use and after any modification
- Don't exceed maximum platform height
- Climb inside the tower using built-in ladder
Podium Steps
Podium steps are increasingly popular for internal decoration:
- Wider base than stepladders
- Guard rail provides support
- Suitable for extended work periods
- Must be used correctly (not leant on)
Higher Risk Approach
- •Standing on top step of stepladder
- •Overreaching to avoid moving ladder
- •Using domestic ladders for trade work
- •Working from unsecured ladder
Lower Risk Approach
Recommended- •Using podium steps for extended work
- •Moving equipment rather than overreaching
- •Industrial EN 131 equipment only
- •Securing or footing all ladders
Asbestos Awareness
Asbestos is commonly found in buildings constructed or refurbished before 2000. Decorators frequently work in these buildings and may disturb asbestos-containing materials.
Where Decorators Encounter Asbestos
Common locations include:
- Textured coatings (Artex and similar)
- Ceiling tiles
- Insulation board partitions
- Window sills and boards
- Around pipes and in service voids
- Behind wallpapers in some cases
Legal Requirements
Asbestos awareness training is mandatory for anyone whose work could disturb asbestos. This includes virtually all painters and decorators.
Before work in buildings built before 2000:
- Ask about asbestos (commercial/rented properties should have registers)
- Don't disturb suspect materials without confirmation they're asbestos-free
- If in doubt, get testing done
If You Find or Suspect Asbestos
- Stop work immediately
- Don't disturb the material further
- Inform the client/building manager
- Assess whether work can proceed without disturbing the suspect material
- Get specialist advice if removal is necessary
Textured Coatings
A particular concern for decorators. Artex and similar products applied before the mid-1980s often contain asbestos.
Can you decorate over textured coatings?
- Painting over intact textured coating is generally safe
- Sanding, scraping, drilling, or removing is NOT safe without testing
- If the coating is damaged, assess whether repair is possible without disturbing
Skin and Respiratory Protection
Decorators have high rates of occupational skin disease and respiratory problems.
Skin Protection
Dermatitis (inflammation of the skin) is common among decorators due to:
- Repeated contact with solvents and cleaners (defatting)
- Sensitisation to paints, resins, and adhesives
- Abrasion from preparation work
Prevention:
- Use appropriate gloves for the substance (check SDS for guidance)
- Apply barrier cream before work where gloves aren't practical
- Don't use solvents to clean skin
- Wash hands properly before breaks and at day's end
- Moisturise to restore skin condition
- Report early signs of skin problems
Respiratory Protection
When ventilation alone isn't sufficient:
For solvent vapours:
- Half-mask with organic vapour filters (A1, A2 type)
- Ensure good face fit
- Replace filters as per manufacturer's guidance
For dust (sanding, preparation):
- FFP2 minimum for general dust
- FFP3 for fine dust and any asbestos work
- Face-fit tested where required
For spray painting:
- Powered respirator or supplied air may be needed
- Specific protection for isocyanates in two-pack systems
Manual Handling
Decorators regularly handle equipment and materials that create manual handling risks.
Common Tasks
- Carrying ladders and access equipment
- Moving paint drums and materials
- Handling scaffolding components
- Working in awkward positions
- Repetitive reaching and arm movements
Controls
Reduce handling:
- Have materials delivered close to work location
- Use smaller containers where possible
- Use trolleys and carts for heavy items
Improve technique:
- Two-person handling for long ladders
- Correct lifting technique for drums and containers
- Avoid carrying loads up ladders - use hoists or pulley systems
- Take breaks from repetitive overhead work
Fire Safety
Many decorating materials are flammable. Proper controls prevent fires during and after work.
Flammable Materials
- Solvent-based paints and thinners
- Adhesives and contact cements
- Wood preservatives
- Cleaning solvents
- White spirit and similar materials
Controls
Storage:
- Minimum quantities on site
- Flammable storage cabinets where appropriate
- Away from heat sources and ignition points
- No smoking in storage and work areas
During use:
- Adequate ventilation to prevent vapour accumulation
- No hot works nearby
- No naked flames, sparks, or ignition sources
- Keep lids on containers when not in use
Waste disposal:
- Don't allow rags to accumulate (spontaneous combustion risk)
- Metal bins with lids for solvent-contaminated waste
- Dispose of waste properly at end of each day
Hot Works
Some decorating work involves hot air guns for paint stripping:
- Check area for flammable materials before starting
- Have fire extinguisher available
- Allow cooling time before leaving area
- Never use on or near lead paint (creates toxic fumes)
Working in Occupied Buildings
Most decoration work takes place in occupied premises - homes, offices, shops, and public buildings.
Customer and Occupant Safety
- Inform occupants about hazards (wet paint, fumes, access restrictions)
- Ensure occupants can safely navigate around work areas
- Don't block fire exits or escape routes
- Consider vulnerable occupants (elderly, children, those with respiratory conditions)
- Ventilate adequately when using solvent-based products
Dust and Contamination
Preparation work creates dust that spreads throughout buildings:
- Use dust sheets to protect furniture and floors
- Seal doorways to contain dust where possible
- Consider timing of dusty work (e.g., after office hours)
- Clean up thoroughly before leaving
Access
- Maintain safe access for occupants at all times
- Secure ladders and equipment when not in direct use
- Clear away tools and materials at end of each day
Employer Responsibilities
If you employ other decorators, additional duties apply.
Legal Requirements
- Written health and safety policy (mandatory for 5+ employees)
- COSHH assessments for all hazardous substances used
- Risk assessments (written for 5+ employees)
- Employers' liability insurance (compulsory)
- Provision of information, instruction, and training
Training
Ensure employees have:
- Asbestos awareness training (mandatory)
- COSHH awareness
- Working at height awareness
- Manual handling awareness
- Any task-specific training needed
Health Surveillance
May be required for:
- Regular exposure to isocyanates or other sensitisers
- Significant lead exposure
- Regular solvent exposure
- Workers showing signs of dermatitis
Supervision
Level of supervision depends on:
- Experience and competence of workers
- Risk level of the work
- Complexity of the task
- Client requirements
Insurance Requirements
Employers' Liability Insurance
Compulsory if you employ anyone. Minimum cover £5 million.
Public Liability Insurance
Essential given work in client properties. Most clients require evidence of cover before work starts.
Professional Indemnity Insurance
Consider if you provide advice on specifications, colour schemes, or heritage work.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Water-based paints are less hazardous than solvent-based but still require assessment. They can contain biocides, preservatives, and other substances that may cause sensitisation or irritation. The assessment may conclude that controls are minimal, but the assessment itself is still required.
Only if it doesn't contain asbestos. If the textured coating was applied before the mid-1980s, it may contain asbestos and should be tested before any disturbing work. Removal of asbestos-containing textured coatings can be done as non-licensed work with proper training, equipment, and procedures, but if in doubt, use a specialist.
Follow the manufacturer's guidance, which varies by filter type and usage conditions. Organic vapour filters should be replaced when you can smell the solvent through the mask, or after the maximum use time specified. Particle filters should be replaced when breathing becomes laboured or as specified.
There's no single mandatory qualification for painters and decorators. However, you need: asbestos awareness training; COSHH awareness appropriate to substances used; any specific training for your work tasks. Employers must provide adequate training for employees to work safely.
No. Work equipment must be suitable for the purpose. Domestic stepladders (Class 3) aren't designed for trade use. You should use EN 131 Professional rated equipment, which is designed for regular commercial use and higher loads.
Health surveillance is required where employees are regularly exposed to substances that can cause identifiable diseases or adverse health effects. This includes isocyanates (two-pack paints), lead, and some solvents with specific health effects. Your COSHH assessments should identify where surveillance is needed.
Find out exactly where it is and what condition it's in. If your work won't disturb the asbestos, you may be able to proceed with appropriate precautions. If your work would disturb it, either the work scope needs to change, or the asbestos needs to be dealt with first by appropriate specialists.
You can't tell by looking. Assume pre-1960 paint may contain lead. Test kits are available for on-site testing, or samples can be sent for laboratory analysis. If you're doing regular work on older buildings, consider investing in testing capability.
For water-based paints, opening windows may be sufficient. For solvent-based paints, you need air changes that prevent vapour accumulation - open windows at opposite ends of the space, or use fans to create airflow. In enclosed spaces without natural ventilation, mechanical ventilation or RPE may be necessary.
Yes. Both employees and the self-employed can refuse work that presents serious and imminent danger. If you're asked to work without adequate controls (e.g., disturbing asbestos without precautions, lead work without protection), you should refuse and explain why.
Summary
Painting and decorating involves hazards that are sometimes underestimated. The key requirements include:
- COSHH compliance - assessing and controlling exposure to paints, solvents, and preparation chemicals
- Lead paint awareness - identifying and managing lead risks in older buildings
- Working at height - using appropriate equipment and following the hierarchy of control
- Asbestos awareness - mandatory training and checking before disturbing surfaces
- Skin protection - preventing occupational dermatitis through good practices
- Fire safety - managing flammable materials properly
- RPE selection - choosing appropriate protection for the hazard
Professional standards in health and safety protect you, your employees, and your clients while supporting business reputation and sustainability.
Related content
Topics:
- Working at Height - Fall prevention guidance
- COSHH - Hazardous substances control
- Asbestos - Asbestos awareness and management
Articles:
Related sectors:
- Builders - General construction work
- Carpenters - Joinery and finishing work
- Construction - CDM and site safety
Tools:
- Responsibility Checker - Find out what applies to you
*This guidance covers key health and safety requirements for UK painters and decorators. It is not exhaustive and does not constitute legal advice.