The South African paint industry is undergoing a monumental shift with the introduction of stringent new regulations on lead content in paints, set to take effect in May 2025. These changes are not just a concern for manufacturers – they directly impact hardware retailers, who have a critical role to play in this transition.
At a workshop hosted by the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS), the National Department of Health (NDoH), and the Lead Exposure Elimination Project (LEEP) on 25 November 2024, in Pretoria, the focus was clear: ensuring compliance is everyone’s responsibility. For retailers, this means understanding the regulations, stocking compliant products, and educating customers about the benefits of lead-free paint.

New paint regulations – what retailers need to know
The updated legislation reduces permissible lead levels in paint from 600 parts per million (ppm) to 90 ppm. Manufacturers must comply with these limits by May 2025, with an additional one year to update product labels. Non-compliant products cannot be sold, exported, or donated.
For retailers, this means:
- Stocking only compliant paints: It’s illegal to sell products that exceed the new lead limits
- Checking labels for compliance: Paint labels must include Global Harmonized System (GHS) compliance information, production details, and clear statements confirming lead-free status
- Avoiding risk: Selling non-compliant paint can expose your business to severe penalties, including fines, reputational damage, and possible legal action.
Ramsook Loykisoonlal from the NDoH emphasised the health risks of lead exposure, particularly for children.
“Retailers are the final link in the chain to protect communities from lead’s harmful effects,” he said.
The retailer’s responsibility
As a retailer, you are more than just a sales channel – you are a trusted advisor to customers and a key player in promoting safer, healthier products. Here’s why your role matters:
- 1. Protecting customers: Lead exposure has severe health consequences. By stocking only compliant products, you ensure your customers are not exposed to toxic substances.
- 2. Enhancing your reputation: Being a responsible retailer builds trust and loyalty. Customers appreciate businesses that prioritise their well-being.
- 3. Avoiding liability: Selling non-compliant paints can result in fines, imprisonment, or even closure for repeat offenses. Protect your business by staying informed and compliant.
What challenges lie ahead?
Transitioning to lead-free paints presents challenges, particularly for smaller hardware stores:
- Supply chain management: Ensure your suppliers provide compliant paints and documentation
- Customer education: Many customers may not understand the shift or the benefits of lead-free paints. You’ll need to educate them on why these products are safer and better
- Cost considerations: Lead-free paints may initially be more expensive, and customers might need convincing about their value.
Supporting the transition
Industry organisations and resources are available to help retailers navigate these changes. At the workshop, representatives from SAPMA (South African Paint Manufacturers Association) and LEEP offered tools and guidance to support businesses in this transition.
Charlotte Potts from LEEP highlighted their free technical support for manufacturers and distributors, emphasising the global trend towards lead-free paint: “With 94 countries enforcing lead restrictions, South Africa must embrace this change. Retailers are critical partners in making this happen.”

What retailers can do now
With just a short time until enforcement, now is the time to act:
- 1. Audit your inventory: Identify any products that may not comply with the new regulations and work with suppliers to phase them out.
- 2. Train your team: Educate your staff about the new regulations and how to identify compliant products.
- 3. Engage suppliers: Ask for Compliance Declaration Certificates and updated labels for all paints.
- 4. Educate customers: Use signage and brochures to explain the benefits of lead-free paints, stressing health, and environmental advantages.
- 5. Promote compliant products: Highlight compliant paints in-store and online as safer, better options for your customers.
The bigger picture
By committing to sell only lead-free paints, hardware retailers play a vital role in creating a safer environment for future generations. As Itumeleng Mphahlele from SABS remarked, “Retailers are the frontline of change. By stocking compliant products, you are not just adhering to regulations – you are safeguarding public health.”
The transition may feel daunting, but with the right preparation and support, it’s entirely achievable. For further guidance, contact SAPMA or LEEP to access resources tailored for retailers.
Stock smart, stock safe – lead-free paints are the future, and your customers deserve nothing less.