Interior Painting
Interior painting of walls, ceilings, doors, and trim including surface preparation, priming, and finish coat application. Covers brush, roller, and spray application methods. Includes lead paint considerations for pre-1970 buildings. Pre-filled hazards, controls, and risk ratings.
What's In Your SWMS
7 Hazards & Controls
Fractures, head injuries, sprains, concussion, death
Use extension pole for roller work to avoid ladder use where possible
Use mobile scaffold or platform instead of ladder for extended work
Clear area below ladder of trip hazards and other workers
- Use industrial-rated ladders compliant with AS/NZS 1892 (minimum 120kg)
- Position ladder at 1:4 angle ratio (1m out per 4m height)
- Ensure all four legs on stable, level surface
- Use ladder stay or stabiliser for extension ladders
- Inspect ladder before each use - reject if damaged
- Maintain three points of contact at all times
- Do not overreach - keep belt buckle within ladder rails
- Never stand on top two rungs of stepladder
- Face ladder when climbing, not side-on
- Do not carry paint can while climbing - use hook or shelf
Non-slip safety footwear essential
20-Step Work Procedure
Equipment & PPE
Equipment (10)
- Stepladder (industrial rated)
Minimum 120kg load rating. Compliant with AS/NZS 1892. Inspect before each use.
- Paint brushes (various sizes)
50mm, 75mm for cutting in. Quality brushes for clean edge lines.
- Paint rollers and trays
Roller covers appropriate for surface texture. Extension pole for reach.
- Extension pole for roller
Reduces ladder use for walls and ceilings. 1.2m to 3m adjustable.
PPE (7)
- Safety glasses or gogglesAS/NZS 1337
Essential for overhead work and spray painting. Splash protection goggles recommended.
- Dust mask (P2) for sandingAS/NZS 1716
Required during surface preparation and sanding operations
- Chemical-resistant glovesAS/NZS 2161.2
For handling solvents, oil-based paints, and cleaning chemicals
- Work gloves (general)
For ladder handling and general work. Remove for fine brush work.
Training & Emergency
Competency Requirements
- Construction Induction Card (White Card)training
Required if working on construction sites
- Painting Trade Competencycertificate
Experience in surface preparation and paint application. May hold Certificate III in Painting and Decorating.
- Ladder Safety Trainingtraining
Training in safe ladder selection, inspection, and use
- Lead Paint Awareness
Required if working on pre-1970 buildings. Covers identification, risks, and controls.
- Licensed Lead Paint Removalist
Required for lead paint removal work. PCCP Class 5 minimum.
- Spray Painting Competency
Required if using airless spray equipment
- First Aid Certificate
Recommended for at least one team member on site
Emergency Procedures
FALL FROM LADDER: Do not move injured person unless immediate danger. Call 000 if suspected spinal injury. Keep person warm and calm.
PAINT IN EYES: Immediately irrigate with clean water for minimum 15 minutes. Hold eyelids open. Do not rub. Seek medical attention.
SOLVENT INHALATION: Move person to fresh air immediately. If unconscious, call 000. If breathing difficulty persists, seek medical attention.
- + 2 more included in your SWMS
Everything above, included in your SWMS document.
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High-Risk Construction Work Categories
Under Australian WHS Regulations (351 - Hazardous Chemicals, Schedule 10 - Prohibited Substances), this work is classified as high-risk due to:
- Work involving hazardous chemicals (Paints contain VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and solvents. Ventilation and respiratory protection required.)
Australian Standards Referenced
Who Needs This SWMS?
This template is designed for the following trades and roles performing interior painting work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do painters need a White Card?
A White Card (Construction Induction Card) is required if working on a construction site. For residential renovation or maintenance painting in occupied homes, a White Card is generally not required, but is recommended best practice.
When is lead paint testing required?
Lead paint testing is required before any surface preparation (sanding, scraping) in buildings constructed before 1970. Lead paint cannot be identified by appearance - testing is the only reliable method. Simple test kits are available from paint suppliers.
What ventilation is required for interior painting?
For water-based paints applied by brush/roller, natural ventilation (open windows and doors) is usually sufficient. Oil-based paints require enhanced ventilation. Spray painting requires mechanical ventilation or local exhaust. Enclosed spaces may need continuous forced ventilation.
What PPE is required for interior painting?
Minimum PPE includes safety glasses (especially for overhead work), P2 dust mask for sanding, chemical-resistant gloves for handling solvents, non-slip footwear, and protective clothing. Add half-face respirator with organic vapour cartridges for oil-based paints or spray applications.
What are the ladder safety requirements for painters?
Ladders must comply with AS/NZS 1892 and have minimum 120kg industrial rating. Position at 1:4 angle ratio. Maintain three points of contact. Never stand on top two rungs of stepladder. Do not overreach. Carry paint using ladder hooks, not in hand while climbing.
What are VOCs and why do they matter?
VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) are chemicals that evaporate from paints and solvents. They can cause headaches, dizziness, and respiratory irritation. Long-term exposure may cause organ damage. Low-VOC water-based paints are recommended. Adequate ventilation reduces exposure.
Can I paint over lead paint?
Yes, intact lead paint in good condition can be safely encapsulated by painting over it. Do not sand, scrape, or disturb the surface. If the paint is flaking, peeling, or needs preparation work, engage a licensed lead paint removalist. Never dry sand lead paint.
How should paint waste be disposed of?
Never pour paint down drains. Leftover water-based paint can be dried out and disposed of in household waste. Oil-based paints, solvents, and empty solvent containers must be taken to a licensed waste facility or council chemical collection point.
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