UK Spray Booth & Smart Repair Bay Regulations
Spray painting, refinishing and smart repair operations are regulated in the UK to protect workers, prevent overspray and control hazardous substances. This guide explains the key regulations and how PVCFAB spray booth curtains support compliance.
Why Spray Booth Regulations Exist
Spray painting produces:
Overspray
VOCs (volatile organic compounds)
Flammable vapours
Airborne particulates
These can cause:
Fire hazards
Respiratory issues
Contamination of other work areas
Environmental pollution
Regulations ensure safe working conditions and proper containment.
Key UK Regulations for Spray Booths
HSE Guidance – Controlling Airborne Contaminants
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) requires employers to control exposure to hazardous substances. Spray booths must:
Contain overspray
Provide adequate ventilation
Use suitable extraction systems
Prevent contamination of other work areas
Curtains are acceptable for smart repair bays, detailing areas and temporary spray zones when used with proper extraction.
COSHH Regulations (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health)
COSHH requires employers to:
Assess risks from hazardous substances
Control exposure
Provide suitable containment
Maintain equipment
Train workers
Spray booth curtains help meet COSHH requirements by containing overspray and reducing exposure.
Fire Safety Regulations
Spray areas must:
Use fire‑retardant materials
Prevent ignition sources
Maintain clear access routes
Ensure proper ventilation
PVCFAB curtains are available in fire‑retardant PVC suitable for spray environments.
Environmental Regulations
Businesses must prevent:
VOC emissions
Overspray escaping into the environment
Contamination of drains or soil
Curtains help create controlled zones that support environmental compliance.
Where Curtains Are Acceptable
Curtains are widely used in:
Smart repair bays
Automotive bodyshops
Detailing studios
Temporary spray areas
Mobile repair setups
Mixed‑use workshops
They are not a replacement for a full spray booth when high‑volume spraying is required, but they are fully acceptable for smart repair, detailing, and light refinishing when used with proper extraction.
How PVCFAB Curtains Support Compliance
PVCFAB spray booth curtains provide:
Overspray containment
Dust control
Fire‑retardant materials
Clear or opaque options
Reinforced welded seams
Smooth‑glide track systems
Custom sizes for any bay layout
They help businesses meet HSE, COSHH and environmental expectations for safe spray operations.
Summary
UK spray booth regulations focus on controlling overspray, protecting workers and preventing environmental contamination. PVCFAB spray booth curtains provide a compliant, practical solution for smart repair bays, detailing studios and temporary spray areas.