| n to our hobbies to relax and to escape life's many | | | | * Do not keep art materials on your skin, even |
| stresses. Thus, it's ironic to learn that our source of | | | | nontoxic materials. |
| comfort can also be a source of danger. Like many | | | | * Toxic solvents such as turpentine and paint thinner |
| activities that are relaxing and therapeutic on the | | | | should never be used to cleanse the skin. Use baby oil |
| surface, arts and crafts carry their own dangers. | | | | (mineral oil) followed by soap and water. |
| Too often, toxic materials are included in art supplies. | | | | * When you clean, use a wet mop or sponge rather |
| For instance, a Canadian art student fell down a | | | | than a duster. Dusts can damage lungs. |
| stairway after he accidentally inhaled vapors from a | | | | * Find substitute art materials for those which might be |
| freshly opened bottle of turpentine. | | | | hazardous. For example, water-based adhesives can |
| Before You Start | | | | be used instead of flammable rubber cement. |
| * Read the label. Be sure it states conformity to | | | | * Take extreme care when using materials not sold as |
| ASTM D-4236, the labeling standard of ASTM | | | | art materials since they may not have been reviewed |
| International. | | | | for safety. Get MSDSs. |
| * If the label does not satisfy you, or if you intend to | | | | * When they are not in use, keep all materials covered, |
| use a product in ways other than normal uses, contact | | | | stored in a safe place, and out of reach of children. |
| the manufacturer for Material Safety Data Sheets | | | | Use unbreakable containers. |
| (MSDSs). | | | | * Carefully follow suggested disposal methods. |
| * For information on specific products, contact Arts, | | | | * Do not store a flammable product near heat, sparks |
| Crafts and Theater Safety (ACTS) at (212) 777-0062, | | | | or flame. Also, do not heat above the temperature |
| or their website. | | | | specified on the label. |
| * Do not use products past their expiration date. | | | | * After finishing the project, wash yourself and the |
| * Use all protective equipment specified on the label. | | | | work surface, and clean your supplies. Leave your |
| Use a mask or gloves that are impermeable to | | | | work clothes in the work area. |
| whatever product you are using. Protect cuts or open | | | | Junior Picassos |
| wounds from exposure. | | | | Kids love the arts, too. Unfortunately, that fun can be |
| * Install a ventilation system that removes old air and | | | | dampened if they come in contact with materials that |
| brings in new air. To test, blow soap bubbles. If they fall | | | | are toxic and dangerous. (And don't be reluctant to |
| to the ground, the system isn't working. | | | | ask the teacher if she is aware of these concerns.) |
| * Be sure you have good lighting and comfortable | | | | * Make certain the product is clearly marked for |
| seating. Keep a fire extinguisher on hand. | | | | children. |
| The Creative Process | | | | * Use products that have no hazard statements and |
| * Do not eat, drink, smoke or apply cosmetics in your | | | | no precautionary statements for children grade six and |
| work area. | | | | under. The word "nontoxic" should be on the label, but |
| * Take breaks and stretches often. | | | | follow the same hygiene practices you would if the |
| * Never use products for skin painting or food | | | | product were toxic. |
| preparation unless they are labeled for that use. | | | | * Older children must be supervised when using |
| * Do not transfer art materials to other containers. You | | | | products labeled with warnings. |
| will lose valuable safety information listed on the | | | | * Get MSDSs if you intend to use a product in creative |
| product package. | | | | ways, e.g., melting crayons. |
| * Wear a face mask and goggles when spraying paint | | | | * Young children should use only water-based marking |
| or fixative. Do the spraying outdoors. | | | | pens, not permanent markers. |
| * When possible, use water based paints and inks, and | | | | * No product containing lead should be used by |
| products that don't create dust or mist. | | | | children. |
| * Hobbyists with allergies or who are pregnant should | | | | * Teach children to use cutting tools safely, and to not |
| consult a doctor before engaging in projects. | | | | place anything in their mouths. |