HEALTH AND SAFETY IN THE CERAMICS STUDIO

Be aware of certain hazards in the ceramic studio and follow these guidelines so that you may live a long and healthful life working with clay.

WEAR THIN PLASTIC GLOVES: to cover skin cuts and pores to prevent allergic reactions to materials whenever mixing clay or glaze materials by hand

WEAR A DUST MASK: whenever mixing dry clay or glaze materials when using the spray booth when cleaning areas with dry clay or glaze materials

WEAR A OSHA APPROVED RESPIRATOR: whenever handling toxic materials when in the presence of toxic organic vapors such as lusters when spraying glaze materials extensively

CLAY DUST: injurious when inhaled over a long period of time, especially for smokers. Do not ever sweep up clay particles in the presence of others. Use a damp sponge to clean off table surfaces and floors.

KILN VAPORS: harmful if inhaled over a long period of time. Do not remain in their general vicinity any longer than necessary. Luster vapors are particularly toxic. Luster firings may only happen at night when no one will come in contact with them.

GLAZING FOOD CONTAINERS:                                           

Use only food safe glazes fired to their recommended temperature on appropriate clay bodies. Do not use glazes containing

lead on food containers and only use barium glazes on exterior if at all.

DO NOT EAT OR DRINK IN THE GLAZE ROOM.

SOME TOXIC MATERIALS FOUND IN THE CERAMICS STUDIO:

ASK YOUR INSTRUCTOR IF YOU HAVE HEALTH AND SAFETY QUESTIONS.