Hazard Warning - Sculpture

Certain materials used in sculpture have toxic properties. The hazards of silica and asbestos are well documented and yet these substances are found in some stones and clays. Some metals, when heated give off fumes which can cause fevers, headaches and nausea. Formaldehyde often emitted by plywood and particle board is an irritant and allergic sensitizer. All these sections on Occupational Health issues are meant to solely increase your awareness of certain potential hazards and are not intended as a complete guide. Medical concerns should be immediately communicated to your physician or a responsible health care provider. If you have or had cancer and/or any type of immune deficiency you should not use any chemicals/hazardous without checking first with your doctor.

What causes these diseases?
Inhalation of some vapors, fumes and fine dusts can lead to disease. To smell something is to inhale it. However, not all materials have detectable odor and some deaden your sense of smell. Chemicals in the air can get into your lungs and then into your bloodstream.

Solvents are intended to clean and dissolve. All solvents damage the skin to some degree. Some solvents are absorbed by human skin and enter the bloodstream. The result may be dermatitis, allergic sensitization, liver and kidney damage, nerve damage, reproductive system and fetal damage and certain types of cancer.

Accidental oral ingestion and inhalation of toxic materials is common. Tiny dust particles deposit on eating utensils and cigarettes and soiled hands can transfer materials to food and cigarettes. Inhaled cigarette smoke carries airborne vapors and poisonous fumes deep into the lungs.

How do I protect myself?
Wear non-flammable protective clothing. Dry, chapped hands mean skin has been damaged: protect skin and hands from chemicals with appropriate gloves. Use face shield to protect against flying particles. Use an approved respirator when performing dusty tasks. Wash dusty clothes regularly.

Wet mop dusty areas frequently. Water spray reduces dust levels but keep water away from electrical tools.

Provide local exhaust ventilation and adequate replacement air to studio. Work outdoors whenever possible.

Take care when using pneumatic tools. Avoid excessive vibration which can lead to permanent circulatory impairment in fingers. Use comfortable hand grips, keep hands warm and take frequent breaks. Shield noisy tools with sound absorbing materials and wear ear protection. Temporary hearing loss after work may seem unimportant but repeated episodes lead to permanent damage.

Practice proper lifting techniques. Back injuries are common but generally preventable.

Take special precautions with plastic resins; heating changes the chemical composition of material and can produce deadly gases.

Avoid welding or melting- junk or found metal. Many contain highly toxic metals such as arsenic, cadmium or beryllium. Small amounts of fumes from these metals can damage health.

Store materials in well-labeled metal containers. Keep containers closed to prevent escape of gases and dusts. Store on low shelves to reduce likelihood of breakage. Store chemicals that may react with one another in separate areas. Keep a fire extinguisher handy.

Dispose of toxic materials safely. Buy only what you need to reduce the volume for disposal. Collaborate with others to share the cost of disposal of large quantities. Check local and state regulations about disposal.