How spray paint claimed a life: Man dies from inhaling toxic fumes
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Disclaimer: This article contains information highlighting the potential risks associated with the use of toxic substances. Readers are urged to follow safety guidelines and consult professionals, especially if they have pre-existing health conditions.
When undertaking activities such as spray painting, there is a risk of being exposed to potentially dangerous chemicals like fumes in the air.
This was the case for a man who recently passed away while working in a car shed due to toxic fumes from solvents he was using to paint.
The 54-year-old Tasmanian man worked on a vehicle in February of 2022.
As he returned to his house after spray painting a rear section of the car, he experienced difficulty breathing.
His wife and paramedics performed CPR but to no avail. The recent report published by coroner Robert Webster shed more light on his untimely death.
He had a lung condition, and while cleaning the rear section of a vehicle he was restoring in his shed, he inhaled xylene, a common component used in paint.
According to Safework NSW, xylene, also known as dimethyl benzene, is a ‘colourless, sweet-smelling liquid or gas that is widely used as a solvent’.
Short-term exposure to it results in eye, skin, and lung irritation. In high concentrations, xylene exposure is also noted to cause fatal respiratory failure.
The coroner’s report also found that not only was the man’s shed not adequately ventilated, but he'd also failed to wear any personal protective equipment.
The man did spray painting and panel beating work for friends and family but didn’t wear any protective equipment—even though his son had purchased him a spray painter suit and mask—and his wife had urged him to use it.
Webster said that the man should have been wearing equipment as stated on the warnings on the paint tins and advice from his wife.
Webster strongly advised to follow advice on ventilation and equipment requirements when spray painting or panel beating.
The Model Code of Practice Spray Painting and Powder Coating provides guidelines for persons conducting spray painting business, which are required by law to prevent health problems.
In a similar story, a social media personality shared that while scented candles can create a cosy and fragrant atmosphere in our homes, it may lead to potential dangers if used indoors. Read more about the story here.
Members, always wear protective gear, practice safety precautions, and make sure to consult your GP if you are allowed to perform such activities.
What are your safety precautions when doing this kind of activity? Share them with us in the comments below!
When undertaking activities such as spray painting, there is a risk of being exposed to potentially dangerous chemicals like fumes in the air.
This was the case for a man who recently passed away while working in a car shed due to toxic fumes from solvents he was using to paint.
The 54-year-old Tasmanian man worked on a vehicle in February of 2022.
As he returned to his house after spray painting a rear section of the car, he experienced difficulty breathing.
A Tasmanian man died when he inhaled toxic fumes. Credit: Shutterstock
His wife and paramedics performed CPR but to no avail. The recent report published by coroner Robert Webster shed more light on his untimely death.
He had a lung condition, and while cleaning the rear section of a vehicle he was restoring in his shed, he inhaled xylene, a common component used in paint.
According to Safework NSW, xylene, also known as dimethyl benzene, is a ‘colourless, sweet-smelling liquid or gas that is widely used as a solvent’.
Short-term exposure to it results in eye, skin, and lung irritation. In high concentrations, xylene exposure is also noted to cause fatal respiratory failure.
The coroner’s report also found that not only was the man’s shed not adequately ventilated, but he'd also failed to wear any personal protective equipment.
The man did spray painting and panel beating work for friends and family but didn’t wear any protective equipment—even though his son had purchased him a spray painter suit and mask—and his wife had urged him to use it.
Webster said that the man should have been wearing equipment as stated on the warnings on the paint tins and advice from his wife.
Webster strongly advised to follow advice on ventilation and equipment requirements when spray painting or panel beating.
The Model Code of Practice Spray Painting and Powder Coating provides guidelines for persons conducting spray painting business, which are required by law to prevent health problems.
In a similar story, a social media personality shared that while scented candles can create a cosy and fragrant atmosphere in our homes, it may lead to potential dangers if used indoors. Read more about the story here.
What are your safety precautions when doing this kind of activity? Share them with us in the comments below!
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