Installing a paint booth is no small task. It requires tons of parts and a lot of manpower. An essential aspect of the installation process is making sure your booth achieves code compliance.
Reputable paint booth manufacturers, such as Global Finishing Solutions (GFS), design and build equipment to meet or exceed all of the applicable codes. Still, it is important to understand what safety regulations apply to your facility and what you must do to ensure the safety of your workers and protection of your equipment.
WHY IS PAINT BOOTH CODE COMPLIANCE NECESSARY?
The codes and permitting requirements for your paint booth depend on where you live. The Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) should be made aware of your installation. The AHJ can advise what city, county and/or state codes are applicable.
Local governments enforce one of the following codes:
International Fire Code (IFC)
- Most commonly enforced code
- Referenced in the International Building Code (IBC)
- Chapter 15 of the IFC addresses requirements for spray areas, spray rooms and spray booths
- References parts of NFPA 33 (Standard for Spray Application Using Flammable or Combustible Materials)
National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) 1 Fire Code
- Enforced in areas that have adopted the NFPA’s set of codes
- Incorporates NFPA 33 in its entirety
In addition, OSHA has requirements for the design of equipment and operations involved in spraying flammable or combustible materials. In most cases, compliance with NFPA 33 is acceptable to meet OSHA’s requirements.
WHO CAN HELP ME NAVIGATE PAINT BOOTH CODE COMPLIANCE?
Local support is key when purchasing a paint booth. That is why you want to select a paint booth manufacturer that has an extensive distribution network, such as GFS.
A local distributor can help you obtain permits and meet code requirements. Since they are in your area, they are knowledgeable about the codes that pertain to you, taking an additional hurdle out of the installation process.