Painter Workwear and PPE: What Painters and Decorators Need in Australia
Written and reviewed by the Max Global Products team · Updated October 2026
Quick answer: a painter needs a half-face respirator with combined organic vapour and particulate filters (A1P2 or similar) for spraying and solvent-based paints, a P2 mask for sanding, disposable coveralls or painter's whites, nitrile gloves, sealed goggles for spraying and overhead work, and slip-resistant footwear. In homes built before 1970, test for lead paint before sanding or stripping.
The painter's kit list
| Item | What to look for | Where to start |
|---|---|---|
| Spray respirator | AS/NZS 1716 half-face with organic vapour (type A) cartridges plus particulate pre-filters for spray work and solvent paints. | Maxisafe MaxiGuard painters kit, JSP Typhoon 8 spray painters kit |
| Sanding mask | P2 for sanding filler, plaster and old paint (where lead is ruled out). | Pro Choice P2 with valve |
| Coveralls | Disposable coveralls for spray work and dusty prep; washable whites for brush and roller work. | Pro Choice Provek coveralls, disposable protective clothing |
| Gloves | Disposable nitrile resists most paints and thinners better than latex. | Pro Choice heavy-duty disposable nitrile |
| Eye protection | Sealed goggles for spraying and ceilings; glasses for general prep. | Scope Maxx Pro anti-fog goggles |
| Footwear | Slip-resistant soles for drop sheets, ladders and planks. | Safety runners |
| Height safety | Harness systems for exterior work at height where scaffolds or platforms aren't in place. | Fall protection |
Lead paint and isocyanates
Lead: Australian homes built before 1970 are likely to contain lead-based paint. Sanding, scraping or heat-stripping it releases toxic dust and fumes. Test first, use wet methods, P2 protection at minimum and disposable coveralls, and never take dusty clothes home. See Safe Work Australia on inorganic lead.
Two-pack paints: many two-pack (2K) coatings contain isocyanates, a leading cause of occupational asthma. Spraying them generally calls for supplied-air respiratory protection, not a half-face cartridge respirator. Check the safety data sheet.
Frequently asked questions
What respirator do painters need for spraying?
For water-based and solvent paints, a half-face respirator with organic vapour cartridges and particulate filters. For two-pack paints containing isocyanates, supplied-air respiratory protection is usually required.
Is a dust mask enough for painting?
A P2 dust mask protects against sanding dust but not against paint vapours. It does not filter solvents.
How do I know if old paint contains lead?
Assume it may if the building is pre-1970. Use a lead test kit or have samples lab-tested before sanding, scraping or burning off.
Outfitting a team
Painting business? Apply for a trade account. See the full guide by trade.
Last reviewed October 2026. This guide covers common kit; your employer's risk assessment and site rules decide what is mandatory.