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INTRODUCTION
The following provides Graphics Arts Media Safety guidelines and procedures. This section covers the following topics:

• Prudent Practices
• Hazardous Chemicals in Pigments
• Painting Hazardous Materials List
• Photography
• Division of Visual & Performing Arts
• General Safety Rules for Shop Tools
• Protective Equipment
• Emergency Equipment
• Storage
• Emergency Response Procedures

Introduction:
This manual has been developed to provide employees and students at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi with a better understanding of the Hazards of art materials and how to work safely with them.

Prudent Practices and Special Concerns
At the beginning of each semester the professors that have labs with their classes shall introduce the students to the hazards of the chemicals used for that lab. It is important that the persons that work with the art supplies and chemicals understand the associated hazards. The art supplies and chemicals associated with graphic media are often extremely hazardous. Depending on the type of art supplies used, artists can develop the same type of occupational diseases as industrial workers. Studies show that people who work with hazardous graphic media chemicals can develop dermatitis, lead poisoning, silicosis, liver and kidney damage, nerve damage, reproductive problems, carbon monoxide poisoning, cancer, and other ailments.

The risk of chemical hazards is directly linked to the following factors:
* Duration and frequency of exposure.
* Chemical toxicity
* Chemical amount

Workers are exposed to graphic media hazards through skin contact, inhalation, and ingestion.

Material Safety Data Sheets
Before using any chemical, read the container label and the appropriate Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS’s). Container labels and MSDS’s are good sources of information for chemical safety. They provide the following information:

*Manufacturer’s name, address, telephone number, telephone # for information, date prepared and signature of preparer.
*Hazardous ingredients.
*Exposure limits.
*Physical and chemical characteristics, including the following:
-Boiling point
-Vapor pressure
*Physical hazards, including the following:
-Flammability
-Explosiveness
-Reactivity
*Health hazards, including chemicals that are:
-Toxic
-Carcinogens
-Irritants
*First-aid procedures
*Proper leak, spill, and disposal techniques.
*Other special provisions.

Follow these safety guidelines for working with graphic media materials:

* Food, drink, tobacco products, and cosmetic usage are prohibited in the workshops, studios and photography dark rooms at all times.
* Wear protective clothing and follow Material Safety Data Sheets, as appropriate.
* Use nontoxic or less toxic solvents and chemicals when possible.
* Eliminate toxic metals such as lead and cadmium. Instead, use cadmium-free silver solders and lead-free paint, glazes and enamels.
* Use water-based instead of solvent-based materials.
* Use liquid materials to replace powders.
* Use wet techniques (such as wet sanding) instead of dry techniques.
* Apply coatings by brushing or dipping instead of spraying.
* Eliminate cancer-causing chemicals.
* Mouth pipetting is prohibited, use mechanical pipettors.

Solvents
Solvents are used to dissolve oils, resins, varnishes, and inks. They are also used to remove paint and lacquer. Due to their common usage, solvents are one of the most underrated media hazards. Most organic solvents are poisonous if swallowed or inhaled in sufficient quantities. They also cause dermatitis and narcosis. Use the least toxic solvent possible. Denatured or isopropyl alcohol, acetone, and odorless mineral spirits are less toxic than solvents such as chloroform or ethylene.

Aerosol Sprays
Aerosol sprays, such as fixatives, paint sprays, and adhesive sprays, are extremely dangerous if someone inhales the fine mists produced by these products. Air brushes and spray guns are equally hazardous. Use aerosol sprays in a well-ventilated area and wear a dust/vapor mask to protect you from the hazardous vapors.

Acids and Alkalis
The acids and alkalis used in ceramics photo chemicals, paint removers, and similar materials can be very caustic to the skin, eyes, respiratory system, and gastrointestinal system. Strong acids, such as hydrochloric, sulfuric, and perchloric acid, require special handling as outlined in the Material Safety Data Sheets. Alkalis, such as caustic potash, caustic soda, quicklime, and unslaked lime, also require special treatment. Remember to add acid to water, not water to acid, when mixing chemicals.

Paints and Pigments
Many paints and color pigments contain hazardous chemical compounds. Lead paint, for example, is extremely dangerous, and should never be used in its powder form. Other paint components, such as chromate, cadmium, and cobalt pigments are equally hazardous. Do not inhale powdered paint or spray paint vapors or accidentally ingest pigment by placing the brush tip in your mouth. In addition, do not eat, drink, or smoke while painting. Any of these activities could result in chronic poisoning.

The table below outlines common paint pigments and their hazardous chemical component:

Painting Hazardous Materials List

Alizarine Crimson
Relative Toxicity Rating
Skin: Slight
Inhalation: Slight
Ingestion: Slight
May cause allergies in a few people.

Burnt Sienna
No significant hazards.

Burnt Umber
Relative Toxicity Rating
Skin: Not significant
Ingestion: High
Contains manganese dioxide, a poison which causes serious nervous system
disorders resembling Parkinson’s Disease.

Cadmium Barium Red
Cadmium Barium Orange
Cadmium Barium Yellow
Cadmium Red
Cadmium Orange
Cadmium Yellow
Cadmium Vermilion Red
Relative Toxicity Rating
Skin: Not significant
Inhalation: High
Ingestion: High
May cause kidney damage; anemia; loss of smell; gastrointestinal problems;
and bone, teeth, and liver damage. Suspected carcinogen.

Cobalt Blue – Green – Violet
RelativeToxicity Rating
Skin: Slight
Inhalation: Moderate
Ingestion: Slight
Repeated skin contact may cause allergies especially at elbow, neck, and ankles. Chronic inhalation may cause asthma and possible fibrosis. Ingestion may cause acute illness with vomiting, diarrhea, and hot flashes.

Flake White
Relative Toxicity Rating
Skin: Slight
Inhalation: High
Ingestion: High
Ingestion or inhalation can cause lead poisoning. Common effects include
weakness, headaches, irritability, malaise, pain in joints and muscles, liver and kidney damage, and possible birth defects.

Ivory Black
No specific hazards.

Lemon Yellow
Relative Toxicity Rating
Skin: Moderate
Inhalation: High
Ingestion: High
Skin contact causes irritation, allergies, or ulcers. Inhalation or ingestion may
cause barium poisoning (intestinal spasms, heart irregularities, and severe
muscle pain); and in case of ingestion, chromium poisoning (gastroenteritis,
vertigo, muscle cramps, and kidney damage). Human carcinogen.

Manganese Blue
Manganese Violet
Relative Toxicity Rating
(see Burnt Umber)

Mars Black – Violet – Yellow – Orange – Red
No significant hazards

Mars Brown
(See Burnt Umber)

Mixed White
Contains lead
(See Flake White)

Naples Yellow
Relative Toxicity Rating
Skin: Moderate
Inhalation: High
Ingestion: High
Skin contact may cause severe skin lesions. Acute inhalation and ingestion
may cause antimony poisoning (metallic taste, vomiting, colic, diarrhea,
severe irritation of mouth and nose, pulmonary congestion, and slow, shallow
respiration). Lead poison (See Flake White)

Prussian Blue
Relative Toxicity Rating
Skin: Slight
Inhalation: Slight
Ingestion: Slight
By itself only slightly toxic. However, it can produce extremely toxic
hydrogen cyanide gas if heated to decomposition or exposed to strong
ultraviolet rays (sunlight).

Phthalocyanine Blue – Green
Relative Toxicity Rating
Suspected carcinogen.
This pigment is usually contaminated with PCB’s, which can cause
chloracne, cancer, and birth defects.

Raw Sienna
No significant hazards.

Raw Umber
(See Burnt Umber)

Rose Madder
(See Alizarin)

Titanium Oxide (Titanium White)
No significant hazards.

Ultramarine Blue – Green – Red – Violet
No significant hazards.

Vermilion
Relative Toxicity Rating
Skin: Moderate
Inhalation: High
Ingestion: High
May cause skin allergies. Inhalation or ingestion can cause mercury poisoning
(damage nervous system and kidneys).

Paint Thinner
Avoid prolonged contact with skin and vapors.

Turpentine
Avoid breathing vapors or mist. If you experience eye watering, headaches,
or dizziness, wear protective respirator. (NIOSH/MSHA TC 23C or
equivalent) or leave the area.
Repeated and prolonged overexposures to solvents can cause permanent brain damage and nervous system disorders; intentional misuse can be fatal.
All solvent containers must be closed when not in use.

Photography
Many of the chemicals used for photographic processing can cause severe skin and lung problems. The greatest hazards associated with photography include the preparation and use of concentrated chemical solutions. Never touch chemicals or solutions with unprotected hands. In addition, take care not to stir up and inhale chemical dusts.

IMPORTANT: Good ventilation is essential when working with photographic chemicals.

The following are common photographic agents and their hazards:

* Developer: May cause skin irritation and allergic reactions.
* Stop-bath: May cause burns and throat irritation.
* Fixer: Highly irritating to lungs.
* Intensifier: Very corrosive and may cause lung cancer.
* Reducer: Contact with heat, concentrated acids, or ultraviolet radiation
produces poisonous gas.
* Toners: Highly toxic.
* Hardeners and stabilizers: Often contain formaldehyde which is poisonous, a skin irritant, and a known carcinogen.

Plastics, Acrylics, Epoxy Resins
Plastic hazards result from making plastic and working with finished plastic. The greatest hazards associated with making plastic come from the monomers, solvents, fillers, catalysts, and hardeners that are commonly toxic. The hazards involved with finished plastics result mainly from the methods used to work the plastic. For example, overheating or burning plastic produces toxic gases. Polishing, sanding, and sawing plastic produces harmful dusts.
Certain types of plastics, such as acrylics and epoxy resins are also hazardous. The components in acrylic, for example, include irritants, explosives, and flammables. The main hazard associated with acrylic compounds, however, is inhalation. Always maintain good ventilation when working with acrylic.
The epoxy resins used in laminating, casting, glues, and lacquer coatings, are also skin irritants, sensitizers, and suspected cancer causing agents.
Avoid skin contact and inhalation when working with epoxy resins.

Pottery and Ceramics
Pottery clay contains silicates that can be hazardous if inhaled. Many low-fire clay and slip-casting clays also contain talc, which may be contaminated with asbestos. Long-term inhalation of asbestos can cause cancer and respiratory diseases. When mixing clay dust or breaking up dry grog, use exhaust ventilation and/or wear a toxic dust respirator. Work with wet clay when possible. Avoid sweeping, use wet cleanup methods.
Pottery glaze ingredients may also contain free silica, including flint, feldspar, and talc. Wear a toxic dust respirator when mixing or spraying glazes. Spray glazes only in a well-ventilated area. Toxic fumes and gases are often produced during the firing process. Ensure that all kilns are ventilated. In addition, use infrared goggles or a shield to look in the kiln peephole. Proper eye protection will help prevent cataracts. Some ceramic chemicals may be hazardous on contact with skin. Wear protective gloves when using these materials. Always wash with a fingernail brush when leaving the studio.

Woodworking
The hazard associated with woodworking include sawdust inhalation, exposure to toxic solvents and adhesives and excessive noise from woodworking tools. Long term inhalation of sawdust can cause chronic respiratory diseases. Depending on the type of wood, short-term sawdust inhalation may also produce allergic reactions. Toxic preservatives, such as arsenic compounds and creosote, may cause cancer and reproductive problems. Epoxy resins and solvent-based adhesives, also pose potential hazards. Use dust collectors around woodworking machines, ensure proper ventilation, and wear personal protective equipment, as appropriate.

Division of Visual & Performing Arts

DVPA and Theatre Shop Safety
There is a half-time shop technician for the DVPA shop and a Theatre Technical Director for the theatre shop. They give safety lectures on the proper use of each piece of shop equipment, and provide one on one training for each piece of equipment. They are there any time the shop is open and supervise the students that are using equipment to finish projects.
Safety is the first priority in the shop. Safety is a responsibility that should be shared by everyone who uses the shop. Tools that are designed to cut wood and metal have no trouble cutting flesh and bone. To ensure that your safety is maximized, please focus your full attention on the task at hand. Talking while operating machinery should be kept to a minimum. Avoid distracting activities which are inappropriate in a shop environment. You must protect yourself against immediate dangers such as cuts and eye injuries, as well as long term dangers, which can be caused by inhaling harmful fumes, or not protecting your ears against high frequency noise. Students and faculty working in the shop should be suitably dressed. Closed-toed shoes are mandatory. Loose clothing and jewelry should not be worn when operating machinery. Long hair should be tied back. Safety glasses, goggles, dust mask, and hearing protectors are provided and must be used. Work areas should be left clean and orderly. Food and drinks are not allowed in the shop. Remember that your safety and safety of those around you is the first priority. Be careful. Ask plenty of questions.

GENERAL SAFETY RULES FOR SHOP TOOLS

KNOW YOUR POWER TOOL – Read the owner’s manual carefully. Learn the tool applications and limitations, as well as the potential specific hazards peculiar to it.

KEEP GUARDS IN PLACE – and in working order.

GROUND ALL TOOLS – If tool is equipped with a three-prong plug, it should be plugged into a three-hole electrical receptacle. If an adapter is used to accommodate a two-prong receptacle, the adapter wire must be attached to a known ground.

REMOVE ADJUSTING KEYS AND WRENCHES – Remove keys and adjusting wrenches are removed from tool before turning it on.

KEEP WORK AREA CLEAN – Cluttered work areas and benches invite accidents.

AVOID DANGEROUS ENVIRONMENTS – Don’t use power tools in damp or wet locations.

KEEP VISITORS AWAY – All visitors should be kept at a safe distance from work area.

STORE IDLE TOOLS – When not in use, tools should be stored in their proper location.

DON’T FORCE TOOL – It will do the job better and be safer at the rate for which it was designed.

USE RIGHT TOOL – Don’t force tool or attachment to do a job, which it wasn’t designed.

WEAR PROPER APPAREL – Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry that may become caught in moving parts. Rubber-soled footwear is recommended for best footing.

USE PROTECTIVE GEAR – The appropriate protective gear should be worn for the job. Safety glasses or goggles, dust masks, and hearing protection may be required.

SECURE WORK – Use clamps or a vise to hold work, when practical. It’s safer than using your hands and frees both hands to work.

DON’T OVERREACH – Keep your footing and balance at all times.

MAINTAIN TOOLS IN TOP CONDITION – Keep tools sharp and clean for best and safest performance. Follow instructions for lubricating and changing accessories.

DISCONNECT TOOLS – Before servicing and when changing accessories such as blades, bits, cutters.

USE RECOMMENDED ACCESSORIES – Use of improper accessories may be hazardous.

AVOID ACCIDENTAL STARTING – Make sure switch is in “off” position before plugging in cord.

DON’T ABUSE CORD – Never carry tool by cord or yank it to disconnect from a receptacle. Keep cord from heat, oil, and sharp edges. Have damaged or worn power cord replaced immediately.

CHECK FOR DAMAGED PARTS – Before using a tool, check the tool to assure that it is operating properly. Check for alignment of moving parts, binding of moving parts, breakage of parts, mounting, and any other conditions that may affect its operation. Any damaged parts should be replaced.

Ventilation
Plan for and use a good ventilation system that will allow for a frequent, if not continuous supply of clean, fresh air. Primary hazards are dusts, vapors and fumes. Air exhausted should not be re-circulated in an air conditioning system.

Protective Equipment

Gloves: Use gloves that provide adequate protection for the hands. Rubber for acids, latex for painting and solvents, leather for welding, metal casting and woodworking.
Goggles: Use proper goggles for eye protection. Welding requires goggles with appropriate degrees of shading to protect against the intensity of the radiation. These can also be used for brazing, furnace operations (including kilns), and molten metals. Chipping goggles protect against flying particles.
Face Shields:Face shields only protect the face from flying particles and sprays. Goggles should be used underneath to protect the eyes.
Head Protection:Hair net or hair restraining cap for long hair when working around machinery or chemicals where the hair could fall into the machinery. Welders helmet for welding to protect from flying sparks or splatters of molten metal.
Foot Protection: Safety shoes should be worn to protect against electric shock, sparks, or molten metal from welding, heavy stones that might fall in sculpture or lithography and for slippery floors.

Respirators:Respirators are of two basic types:
*Air supplying and air- purifying.
Air supplying respirators provide a source of uncontaminated air for the wearer to breathe. Normally not used in the arts. Air-purifying respirators filter the toxic materials from the air you breathe. These are the primary respirators used in the arts.
They consist of two basic parts: The face piece, and the cartridge and/or filters. The cartridges contain chemicals to remove the contaminating gases or vapors. Particulate matter – dust, metal fumes, and mists are removed by filters that entrap the particles.
*Dust mask
It is a disposable dust respirator. It provides some protection against dust and some mists.

Hearing Protectors
Hearing Protectors are of Three Basic Types
There are three types of hearing protectors to protect against excessive noise: ear plugs, earmuffs, and helmets. Earplugs, properly fitted and used can reduce the noise levels by 25 to 30 dB at the most hazardous higher frequencies. One of the most effective is moldable foam type. These are compressed to fit into the ear and then expand to fit the ear canal. Ear muff-type can reduce the noise levels by 10 to 15dB more than earplugs. These are easier to fit and come in a variety of styles, depending on how they are attached. In cases in which noise levels are very high you can wear a combination of earplugs and earmuffs to get great noise reduction.

Emergency Equipment
Fire Extinguishers – Conveniently located in each lab.
Eye Washes – Located in each lab in case of something splashing in the eyes. Flush a minimum of 15 minutes.
Shower – Located in Room 121. There is one for each, women and men.
In case of a chemical splashing all over the person’s body.
Smoke Detectors and Fire Alarm – Located in each lab.
First-Aid Kit – There are two first aid kits in the Center for the Arts. One is located in Room 115, the Facilities Supervisor’s office and one is located in Room 122, the Theatre Shop.

Storage
* Acquire and use appropriate storage cabinets.
* Separate a potentially hazardous material from those that are not hazardous.
* Eliminate use of known hazardous products where control is not possible.
* Purchase appropriately packaged and labeled materials.
* Provide appropriate containers for paper or rags contaminated with chemicals.
* Flammable materials shall be stored in a flammable cabinet.
* The cabinet shall be vented to the atmosphere.

Emergency Procedures
Departmental personnel need to be trained on the hazards associated with laboratory chemicals used and trained on how to respond to spills and other emergencies. Material Safety Data Sheets are an excellent source for this information and should be compiled for all chemicals used or stored within a laboratory. Special clean-up supplies should be available and employees should be trained on how to use these supplies. The Environmental Health & Safety office is available for advice and has some emergency equipment, which can be used during emergencies.

Emergency telephone numbers are listed below.

Campus Emergency Number…………………. 4444
CA Building Coordinator (Fred Akins)……….. 825-2323
Coordinator, University Safety (Roy Coons)…. 825-5555
University Health Center …………………….. 825-2601
University Police …………………………….. 825-4444
Chemical Transportation Emergency Center…. 1-800-424-9300
Poison Control………………………………… 881-4559

For additional safety policy information specific to the physical hazards associated with welding, woodworking, etc. refer to the Safety Regulations and Procedures for Physical Plant Trades.