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Understanding labels
All products (not just paints) must be labelled according to a European scheme if they are hazardous. This information is given as:
- A symbol of the danger – this will be a black symbol on an orange/yellow background square e.g.
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An indication of the hazard e.g. Highly Flammable
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Various Risk and Safety Phrases e.g. Harmful if swallowed, Keep out of reach of children.
Environmental information may also be given. Examples are:
Other non-statutory safety precautions may be added by the manufacturer.
Example of a typical label showing health and safety and environmental information.
Precautions
Flammable
Keep out of reach of children
Use only in well ventilated areas
Ensure maximum ventilation during application and drying
Restrict interior use to small surface areas such as doors, skirting boards and window frames. Not recommended for interior use on large surface areas such as walls, floors or ceilings, or in confined spaces
Keep away from sources of ignition – no smoking
Avoid contact with skin and eyes
In case of contact with eyes, rise immediately with plenty of water and seek medical advice
After contact with skin, wash immediately with plenty of soap and water or a proprietary skin cleanser. Do not use solvent, thinners or white spirit
Remove as much product as possible from brushes/rollers before washing
Some local authorities have special facilities for disposal of waste paint
Do not empty paint into drains or watercourses
Special precautions should be taken during surface preparation of pre-1960s paint surfaces over wood or metal as they may contain harmful lead.
High VOC Content 25-50% VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) contribute to atmospheric pollution
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