ALLERGY TO BUILDING AND DECORATING MATERIALS/WHAT TO USE: PAINT STRIPPERS
Paint strippers are of two basic kinds – organic solvent-based ones which dissolve paint, and caustic strippers which are applied as a paste, allowing the paint then to be peeled away. Avoid using solvent-based strippers as significant fumes are given off on use. Using caustic strippers is probably preferable to using a blowtorch, where you will have to deal with the fumes of the blowtorch and of the paint or varnish being burnt.
Caustic strippers are based on caustic alkalis, and can burn the skin on contact, but do not cause sensitivity. Take all usual precautions with face, hands and body when using irritant materials and handle all waste carefully.
Langlow make Safer Paint and Varnish Stripper which is water-soluble, and does not contain caustic soda, or methylene chloride. It is less irritant than other caustic strippers, but still requires careful handling. It is available from DIY shops, and Do It All.
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