What are the key steps to training a new employee to become a good spray finisher?
Carlson: Most companies unfortunately skip straight to spray technique training when bringing a new operator on board. This is understandable, since many new operators are brought in under emergency circumstances where the employer just needs to get the product out the door. Because so many different things can affect finish quality, a proper training regimen should start with a comprehensive overview of the entire coating system. For example, it is important for operators to understand how the coating should be stored so they can identify problems that may lead to coating contamination or breakdown. They should know how the coating is delivered (i.e., via pump or pressure pot) and how to properly maintain and configure this equipment to ensure a consistent flow of clean coating material. An understanding of how regulators work and how to properly adjust the fluid flow rate is critical, as is proper care and cleaning of hoses and fittings. A failure in any one of these areas could crea
