Is Sherwin-Williams Kem Bond HS Universal Metal Primer toxic?

No paint is risk-free, and "toxic" depends on how much you're exposed to and for how long. Here is what Sherwin-Williams's own documents show. Sherwin-Williams Kem Bond HS Universal Metal Primer scores 14 out of 100 across its 2 sheens and bases. Its untinted VOC is 336 g/L. Its Safety Data Sheet carries these warnings: cancer warning (1 of 2 versions) and organ toxicity warning (1 of 2 versions). We found no third-party emissions testing for it.

Health score

14

VOC g/L

336

Use

Exterior primer, Interior primer

Safety Data Sheet warnings

• Cancer warning1 of 2 versionsContains Ethylbenzene, Methyl Isobutyl Ketone, a suspected carcinogen present in the paint itself, not only as dust.
• Organ toxicity warning1 of 2 versionsMay affect organs through repeated or high exposure (for example solvent vapors).
• Flammable1 of 2 versionsKeep away from heat and flames.
• Aspiration hazard1 of 2 versionsMay be fatal if swallowed and enters airways.

Evidence beyond the label

• Emissions testing: none found
• Health certification: none found
• Full ingredient list (Health Product Declaration): not published

All 2 versions

• Flat · Off WhiteVOC 336 g/L · 6 warnings14Bad
• Flat · GrayVOC not disclosed · 6 warnings—Not enough data

Updated October 12, 2026. Scores summarize the evidence makers publish. They don't guarantee safety or predict individual health outcomes. No brand pays to be listed. How we score