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BCF survey shows correct precautions are being taken by boat owners
when applying antifouling paints
The
most comprehensive survey ever undertaken to study the DIY use of antifouling
(AF) paints in the UK has shown that boat owners are taking the correct
precautions and are well aware of the hazards involved when using these
products. The British Coatings Federation (BCF) Marine Coatings Group
launched the survey in September, to acquire information and data to defend the
DIY use of these products. There is a concern that authorities may decide to
restrict the application and use of AF paints to professional applicators
through the implementation of the latest EU regulations on biocides.
The
survey was completed by just under 2,500 boat owners, the vast majority of
which paint their own boats with antifouling paint on an annual basis. It
confirmed that over 90% of boat owners are well aware of the hazards involved
in the application of AF paints, and use the appropriate personal protective
equipment accordingly. It also highlighted several areas where improvements
could be made, including the provision of training courses, better guidance on
preparing the boat and disposing of waste paint, and further efforts that could
be made to minimise the risks of skin contact with AF paint during its
application.
BCF
members are now reviewing a 14-page preliminary report on the responses and
discussing how to take forward this information to the next stage. Boat
owners and representatives from the marine industry have been invited to a
meeting in early February to discuss the findings summarised in the report and
to put together a strategic action plan as the BCF proceeds with lobbying to
defend the continued use of AF paints by the DIY applicator. Queries regarding
this survey may be addressed to Trevor Fielding, the BCF’s Regulatory Affairs
Manager, trevor.fielding@bcf.co.uk.
Further
updates will be added to this page when
available.
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