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Hi Jeff, Another controversial subject huh :o)? Well, It's not a dumb question. I have done just that in years past but would not repeat it now. Many apparently do what you are asking but since I would not myself, I do not recommend it to others. There is a reason why professional paint spray booths (well ventilated) are required by the OSHA to have explosion-proof electrical equipment and wiring. Here is a section of OSHA General Industry Standards, section 1910.107: QUOTE
1910.107(c)(6)
"Wiring type approved." Electrical wiring and equipment not subject to deposits of combustible residues but located in a spraying area as herein defined shall be of explosion-proof type approved for Class I, group D locations and shall otherwise conform to the provisions of subpart S of this part, for Class I, Division 1, Hazardous Locations. Electrical wiring, motors, and other equipment outside of but within twenty (20) feet of any spraying area, and not separated therefrom by partitions, shall not produce sparks under normal operating conditions and shall otherwise conform to the provisions of subpart S of this part for Class I, Division 2 Hazardous Locations.
ENDQUOTE That's one of the reasons I prefer to schedule my infrequent painting for a nice day outside. However, as with the matter of health issues relating to isocyanates, if you are not required to comply with OSHA safety rules it is a personal decision. OSHA regs are always good guidance though even if not mandatory in a particular instance. Your risk, your decision. Before I discontinued the practice I reviewed the lower explosive limits of typical enamel reducers, the anticipated total quantity released in painting a car, the total space volume involved and the estimated ventilation rate. I concluded that the average concentration in the space would most likely be on the safe side. However, I had no way of estimating with any level of confidence what the localized concentration might be in air flowing around and through the sparking open motors driving the two household window fans that I was using. I was concerned enough about potential ramifications to simply stop doing it. For me it wasn't worth the perceived risk. Others may approach such a situation differently.  Rod
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