Aerosol Spray Paint Guidance

Professional information on safe use, storage, regulations, disposal, and product specifics for aerosol spray paints.

General Information

Aerosol spray paint cans are widely used for painting, refinishing, touch-ups, model work, automotive applications, building maintenance, and architectural or design projects.

Aerosols require correct storage, handling, and disposal. They are often kept in warehouses, storerooms, retail areas, and workplaces. If exposed to fire, cans can rupture or produce sustained jets of flame.

Aerosol cans are steel or aluminium containers with a plastic valve that dispenses product as a fine mist, spray, or stream. They typically contain a liquid or powder product and a liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) propellant. The propellant provides the pressure needed to expel the contents and is flammable. In many cases the product itself is also flammable.

Cans are designed to contain LPG pressure at temperatures below 54 °C. In a fire, temperatures and internal pressures can exceed design limits, which may lead to violent rupture unless pressure is vented. Some cans use valves that melt in a fire and relieve pressure, which can create flaming jets for several minutes.

Many facilities use purpose-built fire safety cabinets with capacities up to 250 litres. These are not mandatory but improve safety and help consolidate hazardous goods.

  • Paint tins, aerosols, and corrosive products may be stored in the same cabinet if each has its own spill tray.
  • Do not place corrosive products above aerosols.
  • Store away from heat sources and direct sunlight.

Aerosol cans are classified as Dangerous Goods, Class 2, reference UN1950.

  • Look for the red flammable gas diamond and, in some cases, a flammable liquid diamond.
  • Always follow the hazard and precautionary statements on the label.

  • Temperature resistance: up to 170 °C.
  • Storage temperature: 5 °C to 25 °C.
  • Keep cans sealed when not in use.
  • Clean the nozzle after each use to prevent blockages.
  • Custom-coloured aerosols have a long shelf life unopened.
  • After first use, expect 12 to 24 months if cleaned and stored correctly.
  • Always read the SDS, TDS, and label.
  • Questions? Call One Stop Aerosols Customer Service: 01908 991096.

For trade and businesses

Transfer used or part-full aerosols to a suitable container and arrange collection by a licensed waste contractor. Follow your site hazardous waste procedures.

For consumers and DIY users

Aerosol cans are roughly 60% tin-plated steel and 40% aluminium, both recyclable. With an estimated 600 million aerosols used in the UK each year, correct disposal matters.

  1. Ensure the can is completely empty before placing it in household recycling for cans and tins.
    Part-full or full cans are hazardous waste and must be kept separate. Most councils collect aerosols via household schemes. Otherwise, take them to your local recycling facility and use the correct bank.
  2. Do not pierce, crush, or flatten cans. Remove loose parts like plastic caps and recycle them separately where facilities exist.

If you are unsure about local arrangements, contact your council for guidance on hazardous waste and recycling services.

This information relates to the material described and may not apply when combined with other materials or used in other processes. It is provided in good faith and believed to be accurate and reliable. No representation, warranty, or guarantee is given as to completeness or accuracy. Users are responsible for assessing suitability for their specific application and for following all legal and safety requirements. For professional use only.