A skilled industrial painter has experience with a variety of techniques when it comes to painting surfaces. There is a specific set of skills that an industrial painter needs to possess, either through practice or natural ability, in order to be successful in their work. This includes the knowledge of precise industrial painting techniques, familiarity with different types of paint and coatings, and the ability to work safely and efficiently, both indoor and outdoors.

Personal Requirements and Skills of an Industrial Painter

The following are a list of personal requirements and skills typically expected of a successful industrial painter:

  • Enjoy practical and manual labour
  • Can withstand the physical demands of any job
  • No allergies to paint, solvents, or dust
  • Strong colour vision
  • Strong reading, writing, and verbal communication
  • Background in trade math and basic science
  • Capability to read and understand blueprints/placing drawings and other specification documentation
  • Knowledge of safe work practices and how to safely operate trade tools and equipment
  • Comfortable working at heights
  • Manual dexterity and physical strength, coordination, agility, and balance
  • Willingness and ability to travel to different work sites
  • Ability to work well with others
  • Quick reaction to emergency situations

Major Responsibilities of an Industrial Painter

As an industrial painter, your industrial painting responsibilities can include:

  • Preparing surfaces for coating by using various methods like abrasive blasting, high pressure water washing or power wire brushing to remove grease, dirt, and rust
  • Overseeing extractors, drying fans, and heaters
  • Mixing chemicals
  • Spray coatings, including paint, lacquer, enamel, silver, or copper solutions, onto manufactured products for a finished surface
  • Moving items to dry and for further painting or packaging
  • Rubbing down painted items between coats
  • Managing paint dipping baths and conveyor equipment
  • Fixing any flaws on a painted item
  • Cleaning nozzles, containers, and hoses

Working Conditions of an Industrial Painter

Industrial painters often work in noisy factory or construction environments, such as warehouses, factories, or on construction sites. These environments can be loud and chaotic, with operating machinery, moving equipment, and other workers.

A lot of the time, an industrial painter is standing or bending over a specific task while wearing protective clothing, masks, and goggles, especially when handling toxic materials.

How Can FTI Ontario Help You Join the Industrial Painting Industry?

FTI Ontario offers an Industrial Painter Apprenticeship that has the potential to lead to a lucrative career as a skilled tradesperson. To learn more, simply click here!