The British Coatings Federation (BCF) in association with the Painting and Decorating Association (PDA) and the Scottish Decorator’s Federation (SDF), has launched a new initiative ‘PaintSafe’ which aims to promote the safe use of paint and related products and provide best practice for decorators and other applicators during preparation, application and drying. Working in collaboration with the major paint manufacturers in the UK, the first phase of the campaign focuses on decorative paints, and was launched 28 and 29 November at the 2017 National Painting and Decorating Show. A second phase to promote safe use of industrial paints will be launched late in 2018.

Unveiled as part of the campaign includes a tri-fold leaflet, which outlines do and do not points to follow whilst painting, and specific guidelines with regards to lead exposure and preparation. The leaflet is available for download at www.paintsafe.org.uk and will be available via trade outlets across the UK in the first quarter of 2018.

BCF’s Chief Executive, Tom Bowtell commented: “Whilst we know most decorators are aware of best practice, it never hurts to be reminded of the best and safest ways to work with paints and coatings particularly when sanding and spraying, or dealing with period houses that may have been previously painted with lead based paints in the pre-1960s period.”