COURSE OVERVIEW:
Welcome to the Safe Handling & Storing of Painting Materials course. This training is designed to support you in adopting safe, compliant, and responsible practices when managing painting products and materials on construction sites. It promotes an understanding of relevant risks, legal obligations, and safe handling techniques to prevent accidents, safeguard health, and ensure environmental protection.
This course begins by emphasising the critical role of safe handling and storage in maintaining workplace safety and legislative compliance. Participants will be introduced to the variety of materials used in painting works, including paints, thinners, primers, adhesives, and sealants—many of which are hazardous, flammable, or chemically reactive. The section also outlines key legal responsibilities under Work Health and Safety legislation and environmental laws that apply to material management on construction sites.
Understanding the types and risks associated with painting materials is foundational to safe practice. This section explores the chemical properties of commonly used products and explains how to recognise substances that are flammable, toxic, corrosive, or reactive. Participants will be encouraged to review product labels and classification systems to assess the risk level of each item used onsite.
Safety Data Sheets (SDS) provide essential information for working safely with hazardous materials. In this section, participants will learn how to locate, read, and interpret SDS documents to identify critical handling precautions, recommended PPE, emergency response steps, and safe storage parameters. Guidance will also be provided on maintaining updated SDS records at the worksite.
Accurate labelling is essential for hazard identification and regulatory compliance. This section addresses requirements for properly labelled paint containers, explains the meaning of hazard pictograms and signal words, and outlines procedures for managing unmarked or damaged labels. Emphasis is placed on eliminating the use of unidentified substances to reduce site risks.
Manual handling of paint materials presents injury risks if not conducted correctly. This section covers the safe lifting and transport of paint drums and containers, including the use of mechanical aids or trolleys to prevent strain and fatigue. Participants will learn techniques to minimise awkward posture and repetitive movements during manual handling tasks.
Flammable liquids require stringent precautions to prevent fires and explosions. This section focuses on the characteristics of flammable substances, ignition sources to avoid, and relevant storage guidelines in accordance with Australian Standard AS 1940. Participants will learn how to work safely around flammable liquids by implementing effective risk controls.
Personal protective equipment (PPE) is a frontline defence against chemical exposure. This section explores the types of PPE required for different paint products, including gloves, respirators, and eye protection. Participants will also be instructed on the correct fit, maintenance, and replacement of PPE to ensure ongoing effectiveness and compliance.
Spill prevention and container management are crucial for maintaining safety and environmental standards. This section outlines best practices for securely handling open or partially full paint tins, using spill-resistant pour mechanisms, and avoiding overfilling trays or unsafe decanting methods. Proper handling techniques reduce the risk of leaks, splashes, and environmental contamination.
Selecting appropriate storage areas contributes to both safety and efficiency. Participants will learn how to choose dry, well-ventilated, and secure locations for paint storage, separate incompatible substances, and position storage to maintain access while avoiding trip hazards. Proper storage location planning supports site organisation and compliance.
Storage infrastructure plays a key role in risk control. This section covers the use of flammable goods cabinets that meet regulatory standards, as well as the implementation of bunds, containment trays, and spill pallets to manage leaks or overflows. Lockable storage is also addressed as a method of restricting access to hazardous materials.
Environmental conditions significantly affect storage safety. This section examines the importance of ventilation, avoiding temperature extremes, and protecting materials from direct sunlight or moisture. Participants will be guided on how to monitor storage environments to prevent deterioration, vapour buildup, or condensation-related damage.
Transporting paint materials within a site requires careful planning. This section provides instructions for using sealed containers, stabilising loads on transport trolleys, and avoiding transport during unsafe site conditions. Attention is given to safe transit practices that prevent spills and minimise disruption to other site activities.
Exposure incidents must be managed quickly and effectively. This section outlines first aid procedures for skin contact, inhalation, and eye exposure to painting products. Participants will learn how to locate first aid resources, access eyewash stations, and follow workplace procedures for incident notification and documentation.
Fire safety is paramount when handling combustible materials. This section explains how to identify and use appropriate fire extinguishers for flammable liquids, plan emergency evacuation routes, and coordinate with fire wardens and supervisors during emergencies. Participants will also review fire prevention strategies specific to painting environments.
Waste management is integral to safe and lawful operations. Participants will explore the classification of hazardous painting waste, including used rags, solvents, and residual paint. The section outlines legal disposal methods, the use of designated waste containers, and the importance of waste contractor compliance.
Continuous improvement strengthens safety outcomes. This final section focuses on conducting inspections and audits of handling and storage practices, updating procedures based on incidents or product changes, and encouraging worker feedback. Participants will be equipped with strategies to maintain high safety standards and proactively manage risks on future projects.
By the end of this course, you will possess the knowledge and practical skills to handle and store painting materials safely, in accordance with Australian WHS legislation, industry standards, and environmental expectations—promoting a culture of care, compliance, and professional responsibility across all painting operations.
Each section is complemented with examples to illustrate the concepts and techniques discussed.
LEARNING OUTCOMES:
By the end of this course, you will be able to understand the following topics:
1. Introduction to Safe Handling and Storage in Painting Work
- Importance of safe practices for health, safety, and compliance
- Overview of common painting materials and associated risks
- Legal duties under WHS legislation and environmental laws
2. Identifying Common Painting Materials and Products
- Types of paints, primers, thinners, sealants, and adhesives
- Understanding chemical classifications and risk levels
- Identifying flammable, corrosive, and toxic substances
3. Reading and Interpreting Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
- Locating essential safety information in an SDS
- Identifying handling precautions, PPE, and emergency actions
- Keeping SDS copies accessible on site and up to date
4. Labelling and Identification of Paint Products
- Requirements for correct container labelling
- Understanding hazard pictograms and signal words
- Preventing use of unlabelled or incorrectly marked materials
5. Manual Handling Techniques for Paint Products
- Lifting and carrying paint drums and bulk containers safely
- Using trolleys, lifts, or mechanical aids for transport
- Minimising repetitive strain and awkward movements
6. Handling Flammable and Combustible Liquids
- Recognising ignition risks and flash points
- Avoiding sparks, heat sources, and open flames
- Storing and using in accordance with AS 1940 standards
7. Selecting and Using Appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Identifying PPE required for different paint materials
- Correct fitting, maintenance, and storage of PPE
- Ensuring availability and replacement of protective gear
8. Preventing Spills and Managing Containers
- Handling partially full and open paint tins safely
- Using secure lids and drip-free pour spouts
- Avoiding overfilling trays and improper decanting
9. Storage Location Requirements for Paint Products
- Choosing well-ventilated, secure, and dry areas
- Separating incompatible materials
- Ensuring accessibility while minimising trip hazards
10. Using Storage Cabinets and Containment Systems
- Installing compliant flammable goods cabinets
- Using bunds, trays, or spill pallets for leak containment
- Locking cabinets to restrict unauthorised access
11. Managing Temperature and Ventilation in Storage Areas
- Avoiding heat buildup and exposure to direct sunlight
- Ensuring adequate air flow and fume extraction
- Monitoring for condensation or moisture damage
12. Transporting Paint Materials Safely Around Site
- Using sealed containers and stable carriers
- Securing loads on trolleys or vehicles to prevent spills
- Avoiding transport during high-traffic or hazardous conditions
13. First Aid Measures for Exposure to Painting Materials
- Responding to skin contact, inhalation, or eye splashes
- Accessing first aid kits and eyewash stations
- Reporting incidents promptly and completing documentation
14. Fire Prevention and Emergency Procedures
- Locating fire extinguishers suitable for flammable liquids
- Planning evacuation routes and emergency response
- Coordinating with fire wardens and site supervisors
15. Waste Management and Disposal of Paint Products
- Identifying hazardous waste categories
- Disposing of paints, solvents, and rags legally and safely
- Using approved containers for collection and transport
16. Reviewing and Improving Safety Practices
- Conducting regular inspections and audits
- Updating procedures based on incidents or product changes
- Encouraging worker feedback and continuous improvement
COURSE DURATION:
The typical duration of this course is approximately 2-3 hours to complete. Your enrolment is Valid for 12 Months. Start anytime and study at your own pace.
COURSE REQUIREMENTS:
You must have access to a computer or any mobile device with Adobe Acrobat Reader (free PDF Viewer) installed, to complete this course.
COURSE DELIVERY:
Purchase and download course content.
ASSESSMENT:
A simple 10-question true or false quiz with Unlimited Submission Attempts.
CERTIFICATION:
Upon course completion, you will receive a customised digital “Certificate of Completion”.