About Aerosols
Safety With Aerosols
Aerosol products are a staple in our daily routines, providing convenience for various tasks – from applying deodorant and using cooking sprays to tackling DIY projects with spray paint.
Aerosol Safety is important
Aerosol products are all around us, making everyday tasks more convenient. From spraying on deodorant in the morning to using cooking sprays while preparing dinner, or even grabbing a can of spray paint for a quick home DIY project—there’s an aerosol for almost every purpose.
Whether for cosmetics, food, or household tasks, aerosols are practical, portable, and reliable. With millions of households and workplaces in South Africa using them, it’s easy to take their convenience for granted and overlook the need for safety when handling these products.
We often don’t give aerosols a second thought, but it’s important to follow these safety tips to keep you, your family, and your colleagues safe.
Read the Instructions
This might seem obvious, but it’s always worth a reminder. Before using any aerosol product, take the time to read the safety instructions and warnings. Here are some common safety guidelines:
While these are typical precautions, always make sure to check the labels on the specific products you use.
Avoid heat and fire
Don’t spray or dispose of aerosol cans near open flames. Even an empty can can still explode if exposed to heat.
Never puncture a can
Piercing a hole in an aerosol can is dangerous because it may still be pressurised.
Store safely
Keep aerosols in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Heat exposure can cause cans to explode.
Safety at Home
Aerosols are common in many homes across South Africa, but it’s important to use them safely:
- Keep out of reach of children: Store aerosol products in a place that’s not accessible to children.
- Avoid smoking: Don’t smoke while using or immediately after using aerosol products.
- Ventilate the space: If you’re spraying in a confined space, like a kitchen cupboard, only use what’s necessary and make sure to ventilate the area by opening windows.
- Use outdoors when necessary: For bigger projects, like spray painting furniture, it’s best to work outside and wear a respirator mask. Check the weather to avoid working in windy conditions.
- Prevent misuse: Be mindful of volatile substance abuse, such as “sniffing,” which can lead to severe long-term harm or even death from the first use. Have open conversations with your children about the dangers of misusing aerosols.
Safety at The Worksplace
In many South African workplaces, aerosols are essential in industries ranging from retail to manufacturing. However, they come with risks:
- Safe storage: Keep aerosol cans in a secure, cool area when not in use, away from potential hazards like punctures, extreme temperatures, and corrosion.
- Follow workplace procedures: For products like insecticides, industrial paints, or cleaning agents, make sure to read the instructions and adhere to workplace safety protocols.
- Know emergency equipment locations: Be aware of where safety equipment like fire extinguishers, eye wash stations, and first-aid kits are located in your workspace.
Whether at home or on the job, always take the time to read the instructions on aerosol products and handle them with care. They may be convenient, but safety should never be compromised. Stay safe while enjoying the benefits of aerosol products!
