In the garage

This information is for mechanics, welders, vehicle painters and car body repairers. It gives information on things in the workplace that could damage the lungs and advice on how to protect them.

What are the hazards?

These are some of the hazards you may come into contact with at work.

  • Isocyanates

    Found in products including paints, coatings, foams, glues and flooring. Paint spraying, e.g. when painting a car, releases high levels of them into the air.

  • Dusts

    From sanding and grinding.

  • Welding fumes

    A mixture of gases, including nitrous oxide (NOx), carbon dioxide (CO2), carbon monoxide (CO), shielding gas (e.g. argon, helium), ozone (O3), and very fine particles which can harm your lungs if breathed in.

  • Diesel engine exhaust

    Released from vehicle engines, particularly when running in enclosed spaces.

  • Metalwork

    Dusts can be produced and breathed in during metalwork such as grinding, machining or repair work.

    Metal working fluids are oils and liquids used to cool and lubricate tools during these processes which can be breathed in as a mist.

Smoking or vaping harms your lungs

Smoking is the biggest risk factor for lung conditions like COPD and lung cancer.
Vaping also exposes your lungs to harmful chemicals.

Quitting smoking or vaping will help protect your lungs.

Nicotine is addictive, and stopping can be difficult.

Conditions

How can your health be affected?

How to protect yourself

Your employer has a responsibility to ensure the work environment is appropriately ventilated and that you are provided with protective clothing and appropriate safety advice.

Here are six things you can do to ensure you’re doing everything you can to protect your lung health at work.

  • Assess Risk

    Do risk assessments to make sure you are doing jobs safely and efficiently.

  • Paint spraying

    When paint spraying:

    • Always spray inside a protective booth
    • Be aware that spraying creates an invisible mist and that booths need time to clear
    • Do not lift your mask straight after spraying
    • Use air-fed breathing apparatus
    • Maintain the breathing apparatus and booth regularly
    • Avoid skin contact
    • Take care when cleaning and preparing areas for paint

  • Using a grinding wheel

    When using a grinding wheel wear respiratory protective equipment (RPE) when maintaining, cleaning and emptying the vacuum cleaner.

  • Wear the right protective equipment

    Wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) can help reduce exposure to harmful substances, particularly when other measures cannot fully control what’s in the air. Depending on your work, this could include masks, gloves or eye protection. Your employer is responsible for providing the right equipment for your role, as well as training on how to use it correctly.

    Different masks and other PPE are available in a range of sizes and designs. If you are having trouble using the equipment supplied by your employer, you should discuss the options for using a different kind.

  • Health check-ups

    Get your health checked regularly. If there is a health scheme at your workplace, take part in it. Otherwise, see a healthcare professional regularly and make sure they know about your workplace. Health surveillance might include answering questions about your symptoms or lung function tests. This can help identify problems early.

    If you notice any new symptoms or are concerned about your health, don’t wait. Report them to your doctor or occupational health scheme promptly.

  • Know what to expect from your employer

    Your employer has a responsibility to reduce your exposure to harmful substances. This can include using safer alternatives where possible, ensuring adequate ventilation, and providing the right equipment, training and safety advice.

    If any of this seems to be missing at your workplace, it is worth raising it with your employer, health and safety representative or union.

More information