Question: A caller from West Virginia was worried about free isocyanates being released from epoxy paint applied in a poorly ventilated area. The label says that the paint takes seven to 14 days to cure properly. How long should one wait before re-entering the work area after the paint is applied?
The amount of solvent that evaporates decreases over time so that under "standard conditions," i.e. a temperature of 68 degrees F and a relative humidity of 50 percent, the workers should be able to safely enter the work area after two to four hours. This will depend on the amount of air "turn over," i.e., the ventilation of the area. For small confined spaces, one might wait a couple of days, whereas in a large area like a garage or airplane hanger, one might return to the area after a couple of hours. For more information about the specific solvent in the paint you are using, call the customer service and/or health departments of the manufacturer.
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