Elimination/Substitution
Elimination means the complete removal of the hazard itself such as lead-based paint. Substitution is the replacement of a more harmful hazard with a less harmful hazard. Below are examples of best practices using elimination and substitution to mitigate hazards.
Paint on ships is usually lead-based.
- On new projects, select materials and chemicals that do not contain lead.
- Use zinc-containing primers covered by an epoxy intermediate coat and polyurethane topcoat instead of lead-containing coatings.
- Substitute mobile hydraulic shears for torch cutting under certain circumstances.
- Consider surface preparation equipment such as needle guns with multiple reciprocating needles completely enclosed within an adjustable shroud, instead of abrasive blasting under certain conditions. The shroud captures dust and debris at the cutting edge and can be equipped with a HEPA vacuum filtration with a self-drumming feature. One such commercial unit can remove lead-based paint from flat steel and concrete surfaces, outside edges, inside corners, and pipes.
- Choose chemical strippers in lieu of hand scraping with a heat gun for work on building exteriors, surfaces involving carvings or molding, or intricate iron work. Chemical removal generates less airborne lead dust. However, be aware that these strippers themselves can be hazardous and that the employer must review the safety data sheets (SDSs) for these stripping agents to obtain information on their hazards.
- When possible, replace lead-based painted components with new components free of lead-containing paint. Another option is to remove the paint off site and then repaint the components with zinc-based paint before replacing them.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
2-2. Which "Hierarchy of Controls" method is being used when replacing lead-based paint on a vessel with lead-free paint?
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