Commercial painting is far from being a walk in the park. The life of a commercial painter is fraught with challenges, not the least of which are the serious injuries they face on a regular basis.
Learning about some of the most common and severe injuries that commercial painters encounter during their demanding work can help you.
Eye injuries
Painting often involves working with high-pressure equipment, which can produce airborne particles that pose a significant threat to a painter’s eyes. Without appropriate eye protection, painters are vulnerable to injuries such as corneal abrasions or more serious, vision-threatening trauma.
Falls from heights
One serious risk commercial painters face is falling from heights. Painting often requires access to elevated areas, such as scaffolds, ladders or aerial lifts. Without proper precautions and safety measures, painters are at a high risk of losing their balance or encountering unstable surfaces, leading to life-altering falls.
Chemical exposure
Painters are constantly in close contact with various chemicals, including paints, solvents and thinners. Prolonged exposure to these substances can result in severe health issues, ranging from skin irritations and respiratory problems to more dire conditions like chemical burns or poisoning.
Musculoskeletal injuries
The physical demands of painting can take a toll on a painter’s body. The repetitive motions required for brushing, rolling and spraying paint can lead to musculoskeletal injuries. These injuries can manifest as strains, sprains or even a long-term issue like carpal tunnel syndrome, which affects 3.8% of the American public.
Respiratory problems
Inhaling paint fumes, dust and other airborne contaminants can lead to respiratory issues among commercial painters. These problems can range from mild irritations to chronic conditions like asthma.
Electrical hazards
Commercial painters frequently deal with electrical systems while preparing surfaces or applying coatings. Inadequate precautions can result in electrical shocks, which can cause serious injuries, including burns, muscle contractions and even cardiac arrhythmias.
Falling objects
Painters often work in busy environments where tools, equipment and materials are being moved around. The risk of falling objects is significant, and even a small item falling from above can lead to severe head injuries or fractures.
To protect themselves, commercial painters must remain vigilant at all times. Contact your workers’ compensation specialist for a free, no-obligation consultation to learn how we can help you. Call 610-892-9300 or reach us online.