Toxic-reducing tips for artisans
Artisans can be exposed to toxic substances when they inhale, ingest or absorb their working materials. A few simple precautions can help artists and crafts people avoid long-term health consequences.
"There is no hazardous chemical that isn't being used in an art studio somewhere." -- Monona Rossol, founder of A.C.T.S.
Art and hobby supplies pose unique toxic risks when artisans inhale, ingest or absorb their working materials. A few simple precautions can help artists avoid long-term health consequences.
FRESH AIR
Ensure that your work area is ventilated. The simplest solution is to use open windows and fans. Read more about ventilation systems and respirators in the Artisan Health & Safety Manual from ArtisanWork.
DUST CONTROL
Lungs are not only sensitive to irritants in dust; they are also a route of exposure carrying toxics to other systems in the body. When working with clay dust, dry pigment, or any other dust-producing activity, choose a well-fitting dust mask. Control dust with a vacuum, a wet rag or a microfiber cloth. When cleaning up after a project, use a vacuum or a wet mop instead of sweeping.
WASH, WASH, WASH
When materials get on your hands, you can absorb toxics through your skin or ingest them when they are transferred to food and drink or by touching your mouth. Wash your hands with plain soap and use a scrub brush under nails when you leave the studio.
WORK CLOTHES & SHOES
Treat yourself to a comfortable working smock, apron or jumpsuit and work shoes that you can leave in the studio. That will keep toxic materials out of your living space and away from your family.
EYE & HAND PROTECTION
Find gloves and eyewear that work for you, and that you can commit to wearing while you work. Chemicals absorbed through skin or eye contact get into the bloodstream and can cause toxic effects on other body systems.
STORE SUPPLIES SAFELY
Materials such as solvents, paint and adhesive can give off fumes even while in their containers. Store them in tightly sealed, labeled containers. a fireproof cabinet and, if possible, in an area not attached to your living space.
SAFE MATERIALS DISPOSAL
Plumbing is not designed to handle oily, corrosive materials or toxic materials such as photo developers, paint, solvent, varnish, dye and glaze. Read more about preparing waste for disposal at Metro. Find a safe disposal site with earth911.org
FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS
Art materials often contain heavy metals, synthetic chemicals, volatile organic compounds and other ingredients that can cause serious, irreversible health effects. One study suggests that studio artists--including painters, sculptors, print-makers and photographers--experience higher rates of some types of cancer. (See more on cancer risk for artists) Follow label instructions to limit your exposure, and you can protect your future health.
OTHER RESOURCES
Oregon's Center for Research on Occupational and Environmental Toxicology: croetweb.com
Arts Crafts Theater Safety : artscraftstheatersafety.org
ACTS, a not-for-profit co-founded by artist and industrial hygienist Monona Rossol, provides safety and hazard information for the arts. They provide an information hotline by email ( actsnyc@cs.com) and phone (212-777-0062) for advice on professional safety and referrals to doctors and other resources.
City of Tucson Health & Safety in the Arts: http://www.ci.tucson.az.us/arthazards/
This site offers searchable databases of art mediums and studio safety so that artists can learn about storage, disposal, protective equipment and more.
Artisan Health & Safety Manual: Artisanwork.org
This nonprofit helps small-scale artisans share resources and information on product development, production planning and more. Their health and safety manual (also available in Spanish) developed by Aid to Artisans contains practical advice for avoiding toxics as well as a good overview of why it's important.
