What should I look at in a cabinet shop’s spray finishing room and ventilation?

Begin with the room itself. Is it a purpose-built booth or a corner of the shop with plastic sheeting? Look at the walls, floor and ceiling for built-up overspray. Check that filters are clean and in place, and that the fans sound steady. Ask who changes filters, how often and where used filters go.

Then look at storage. Finishing products, thinners and rags should be kept away from heat and ignition sources in a place designed for it. Look at labels, lids and spill control. Ask how leftover product is handled and who takes it away.

Ask about people. What protective gear does the crew wear, and does anyone check that it fits and is replaced? Does anyone report headaches, rashes or breathing trouble? Is there a routine for training newcomers? Ask about history, including any fire, complaint from neighbours or insurer’s question. Then bring in a qualified inspector and speak to your insurance adviser. Your lawyer can tell you who is responsible for the room under the lease or ownership. A tidy, well-kept room often reflects how the whole shop is run, and a neglected one often does too.

Key takeaways

• Inspect the booth, filters, fans and overspray build-up while the room is in use.
• Check how products and rags are stored, and how leftovers are removed.
• Ask about crew protection and past incidents, and bring a qualified inspector.