Top Considerations When Hiring Professionals for Industrial Spray Coating
Industrial coatings protect and enhance floor surfaces, containment tanks, and piping. When they are applied properly by skilled contractors, they make it easier to keep equipment operating and prevent problems like rust, corrosion and weather damage.
However, not all coating companies are created equal. Here are several things to consider when hiring professionals for your project: 1. Technical Expertise.
1. Experience
A company that has been in business for a long time is likely to have the experience to complete your project. You also want to make sure the company has the financial stability to keep their employees and subcontractors employed, purchase tools and supplies, reach your location in a timely manner, and stay in business for enough time to finish the work you need them to do.
Coating and painting projects are often complex and require various skill levels to achieve quality results. A contractor like Bullet Liner (bulletliner.com) with extensive industry experience will have a better understanding of how coatings should perform and the best practices for your specific project.
In addition to experience, you also want to make sure the contractor has the proper certifications and licensing to do the work in your area, particularly in industrial spray coating. Licensing is an indication that the contractor meets state and local regulations and has a commitment to professionalism and adherence to standards in the field. Certifications from reputable trade associations signal that the contractor is knowledgeable in the best practices for surface preparation, application, and inspection of industrial coatings
In addition to technical expertise, a good coating inspector should be able to communicate clearly and concisely both verbally and in writing. This is critical for keeping everyone on the project informed as it progresses and for resolving issues. Physical ability is another important aspect, as the job requires a lot of climbing and entry into confined spaces.
2. Certifications
There are many different certifications that industrial coating applicators can earn, so you want to make sure that whichever company you choose has the proper credentials. Having the right licenses ensures that they comply with state or local regulations and can work on your facility safely and effectively. Additionally, membership in reputable trade associations demonstrates their dedication to professionalism and keeping up with the latest best practices.
For example, SSPC’s Coating Application Specialist (CAS) certification indicates that the painting contractor has the necessary experience and training to properly prepare surfaces and apply high-performance industrial coatings. Similarly, SSPC’s Quality Control Supervision and Competent Person Lead Training (QP) certifications provide proof that the painter has been trained to manage surface preparation and coating projects while following industry-wide standards.
It’s also important to check that the industrial coatings company is financially stable enough to afford their employees and tools, purchase supplies, and reach your operation in a timely manner. Additionally, they should have the appropriate insurance to protect you from any damage that may occur during their service.
A good place to start is by checking for NACE CIP level 1 certification, which requires a written exam and hands-on evaluation. This course covers topics like corrosion protection, inspection, surface preparation, industrial coatings and concrete coatings, and health and safety issues. Moreover, the NACE CIP level 2 certification covers more advanced material like advanced corrosion theory and non-destructive testing.
3. Licensing
For industrial coatings that may contain a hazardous chemical, it’s necessary to have an effective storage and containment system in place. If an improper spray coating is used on equipment, it can leak and expose workers to the chemical, as well as cause environmental damage to the surrounding area. For this reason, the EPA enforces strict guidelines for the proper use of these products and for the construction of spray booths.
An experienced industrial painter can earn the Certified Coating Applicator (CCA) certification from AMPP. This designation demonstrates their expertise to clients, employers and the general public. To earn the CCA, industrial painters must complete the two-level Industrial Coating & Lining Application Specialist curriculum which meets the U.S. Department of Labor standards for apprenticeship programs.
Another important consideration is whether the industrial painters you hire are licensed by the manufacturers of the coatings you’re using. For example, if you’re using Chemours Teflon industrial coatings, then it is essential to work with a company that has been licensed by the manufacturer. This ensures that the company knows how to properly apply the coating and that it will last as long as possible.
The CAP Industrial Coating Specialist performs journeyman level work utilizing multiple surface preparation techniques and applications of epoxies, polyurethanes and polisiloxanes t to pumps, piping, valves, vehicles and other equipment at Central Arizona Project pumping plants and aqueduct facilities to support water distribution. This position works under the direct supervision of a senior industrial painter and is expected to follow work instructions, drawings, quality standards and safety protocols.
4. Safety
While the spraying and coating process is vital to industrial manufacturing, it poses several health and safety risks that must be addressed. These hazards can include inhalation, swallowing, or skin contact with hazardous chemicals used to prepare surfaces, apply primer and paint, and finish the product. The risk of injury also comes from the manual handling of heavy equipment and the physical toll that long periods of spray painting can take on workers.
To mitigate these risks, companies need to implement engineering controls like ventilation systems that minimize worker exposure to volatile substances in an airborne concentration that exceeds safety standards. Administrative controls, such as restricting access to areas where spray painting is taking place, complement engineering measures and further reduce the risk for employees.
When selecting a contractor, it’s important to choose one with deep technical expertise of surface preparation and coating type and application. Look for certifications and membership in trade associations that show a high level of professionalism and adherence to industry best practices. Ensure that the contractor carries liability and workers’ compensation insurance, as this protects your business from financial hardship in the event of accidents or injuries on site.
Lastly, it’s crucial to prioritize contractors that have a strong commitment to workplace safety and a good track record of client satisfaction. This includes an emphasis on quality assurance through appropriate surface preparation and high-quality materials, as well as openness about costs and scheduling.