Sick after priming

[ScaniaRV]

Had my first priming session last weekend. At the end of the day I had a headache and felt sick. I thought I had taken enough precautions but perhaps I missed some vital detail. I use a 2-part epoxi primer that is reduced with something based on MEK. My setup includes a spraybooth with an exhaust fan (explosionproof) vented outside. The fan seems to be able to keep a lower pressure in the booth since its plastic walls bows inward at all times. I used a respirator with a halfmask and a hood over the head. In addition I wore an old military raincoat and chemical gloves (laminated) rated for MEK. The respirator and spraygun turbine was outside the booth at the other end of the workshop, a distance of about 12 feet. I didn?t notice any smell of solvent during the day but it was perhaps masked by the smell from the new respirator. My method of preparation did not include any alumiprep and alodine. Instead I tried prekote which according to the product information does not demand respirator or ventilation. On the other hand this part was done the day before spraying and I was feeling fine after that experience. Any suggestions what might have went wrong is appreciated.

[FredMagare]

I'm sorry to hear your not feeling well. MEK is fairly toxic. As with any chemical it can be absorbed through the skin. I'd advise to get a suit which will completely cover you. Also, ensure there are no leaks in your breathing aparatus. Some painters feel the half-mask may not seal well enough and purchase the full mask. (Check with your local FD for type and sources.)

If you find you have a sensitivity to the chemicals in the painting process, you might consider farming this part out. (Assuming it's exterior color and not prime. If prime, take it outside, if that's feasible.)

I would think the joy of having an aircraft you've built might be slightly offset if you're dying of lung cancer or some other illness associated with the building process.

Be careful
Fred

[C-GRVT]

Perhaps an obvious suggestion, butwhile I am sure that you can up the precautions, I would be inclined to switch to a less toxic/demanding primer - for example, I am using a Dupont DTM two part epoxy primer, taking fewer precautions than you (a quality mask, outside, and long sleeves) without any problem (that I know of). In the winter, I sometimes use a self etching primer, spray outside and then bring inside to dry - it doesn't seem to have any adverse effects on the result. Given the amount of priming that has to be done, (large and small bits) one wants to avoid a process that is too demanding on the set up.
Bill

[Low Pass]

Check some of the industrial safety supplies like Lab Safety, Vallen, etc. for some full face respirators, cartridges and other PPE. Sounds like you either are allergic or got a pretty heavy dose of the stuff.

Make sure your gloves and other items are suitable for the materials you're using as well. As Fred says, lots of these things will go through many materials and your skin.

Even though I painted mine, I'd have to seriously think about not painting a second. I've probably used up a lot of my lifetime credit on chemical eposure.

Good luck.

[szicree]

Seems obvious, but you are wearing a respirator while stirring paint, right? It's amazing what a big dose of fumes you can get while simply mixing.

[MarkDews]

Be very careful the next time you work around these products (over and above what you have done!). Some people develop allergies to these chemicals (epoxies especially). The first exposure is not truly severe. The next and subsequent exposures could be!

Very good sugestion on wearing the respirator while mixing. I would go further and say a respirator should be used any time the cans are open, primer or paint is drying (and you are in the area) and don't forget during cleanup.

Developing epoxy allergies has killed many projects for the "plastic guys".

[alpinelakespilot2000]

Not to discount the more serious possibilities, but it sounds like you took care to protect yourself. Any chance you were just light-headed and sick from dehydration or not eating all day. Sometimes I sweat a LOT in the mask and/or suit. Sometimes I get so focused on finishing the priming session that I don't eat or drink anything--either of these two things could explain how you felt too. Again, though, definitely make sure it's not the result of chemical exposure first. Good luck.

[Bruce]

I would also put a vent in so that the fresh air is sucked into you paint booth. Use some type of filter and that will help the sides of your paint booth from collapsing.
Good Luck,

[videobobk]

If this proves a problem in the future (and wasn't a one-time event) you might also consider a water based primer. I used it (AFS) and was very happy with it. It is much less toxic.

Bob Kelly

[jantar]

Fax the MSDS of the product you are using to the cartridge manufacturer and ask them if it is appropriate for the chemicals you are dealing with (3M has this kind of free service). Cartridges are made for a specific purpose. In example, a self etching primer needs cartridges to protect you from acids in addition to carbon protecting you from other chemicals. You are using a non self etching primer so you do not have this problem but you may have another compatibility issue.

Also, be careful you may develop either a chemical sensitivity or an allergy. Sensitivity would appear if your liver can?t detoxify the substance in an efficient way, allergy is of course an immune reaction. Both get worse with repeated exposure.

If this product is a problem for you I would stop using it right away, why, because paint fumes for up to 3 months (at low level). Even when it dries up it is still fuming toxins into the air. Sooner or later you will end up with a problem, unless this time it was neither chemical sensitivity nor an allergic reaction.

I bought fresh air system because I was not getting enough air in a mask and I was developing a headache. I was getting the same headache even when I was not working with toxins.

Good luck.