Guide to Compliant Car Re-Spraying 

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) pose a risk to health and the environment. In still, sunny conditions and in the presence of nitrogen oxides (contained in vehicle exhaust gases), VOCs react to form ground-level ozone. Ozone is one of the components of summer smog and harms human health and environment.  

The European Union (Paints, Varnishes, Vehicle Refinishing Products and Activities) Regulations 2012 (S.I. No 564 of 2012) aims to reduce the risk of exposure to VOCs to human health and the environment including setting limits the VOC content of many paints, primers, and solvents in widely used products.  

Under the regulations it is an offence for any uncertified operator to respray cars and parts without a valid certificate of compliance.  

Any such operators should arrange for an inspection with an approved assessor immediately and then apply to Cavan County Council for a certificate of compliance.  

Motor factors and paints suppliers also need to be aware it is an offence to place non-compliant vehicle refinishing products on the market.  

If an operator receives non-compliant materials, they must notify the EPA and take appropriate steps to minimise the risk to human health and the environment. 

More information can be found on www.cavancoco.ie/deco-paints  

What can I do? 

If you undertake car respraying, your Certificate of Compliance must be displayed in a prominent position at your compliant premises.  

If you need to use the services of a car re-sprayer ensure that you use a compliant operator. The current Cavan County Council Deco Paints Register is detailed below: