The Orange Stripe

Your Information Center For All Veterans


O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave!

CARC Paint



Agent Orange, Anthrax, Depleted Uranium, Dioxin, Gulf War Veterans' Health, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans, Herbicidal Warfare, Hodgkin's Disease, News, Non-Hodgkin's Lymphomas PTSD, Multiple Myeloma, Radiation-Related Health Issues, Respiratory cancers, Spinal Cord Injury, Traumatic Brain Injury, Veterans' Health, WWII, Korean, Vietnam Veterans and more.



 

CARC Paint

CARC paint refers to the chemical agent resistant coating system used in preparing and painting vehicles. The CARC combination of pretreatments, primers and topcoats makes the metal surfaces highly resistant to corrosion and penetration of chemical agents, including chemical warfare agents. Although dry CARC poses no hazards, except during welding or sanding, inhalation of CARC during the painting and drying process can be harmful.

How Veterans May Have Been Exposed to CARC Paint

CARC is used to prepare and paint vehicles, including all combat, combat support, and combat service support equipment.

Veterans who may have been exposed to CARC paint or fumes during military service include:

  • Gulf War veterans who painted combat vehicles and equipment
  • Other veterans who painted tanks, Armored Personnel Carriers (APCs) and other motor pool equipment

Health Problems Associated with Exposure to CARC Paint

Paint fumes present the most potential risk to users especially when CARC is spray painted, rather than applied with a brush or roller.

CARC paint contains several chemical compounds that can be hazardous when inhaled or exposed to the skin:

  • Isocyanyte (HDI) - Highly irritating to skin and respiratory system. High concentrations can cause:
    • Itching and reddening of skin
    • Burning sensation in throat and nose and watering of the eyes
    • In extreme concentrations can cause cough, shortness of breath, pain during respiration, increased sputum production, and chest tightness
  • Solvents - Inhaling high concentrations can cause:
    • Coughing, shortness of breath and watery eyes
    • Long term exposure could lead to respiratory problems, including asthma
  • Toluene diisocyanate (TDI) - High levels released during the drying process can cause kidney damage

If you are concerned about health problems associated with exposure to CARC paint during military service, contact the Environmental Health Coordinator or Patient Care Advocate at your nearest VA medical facility.

VA Benefits for Health Problems Associated with Exposure to CARC Paint

Veterans may be eligible for:

  • Health care for health problems that VA determines are related to exposures during military service.
  • Disability compensation for health problems that VA determines are related to exposures during military service.
  • A broad range of other VA programs and services.

Learn more about VA health care, disability compensation and other benefits.

Related Links

Department of Defense (DoD):





O'er, the land of the free and the home of the brave!