Health Hazards & Safety Tips for Artists

By Susanne Hamilton for CARFAC SASK © 2000

Are Your Art Materials Safe?

Artists use many of the same hazardous chemicals found in industry, but unlike industrial workers, artists use these chemicals in their studios without adequate precautions and ventilation. In addition, many artists are not aware that some of these materials contain dangerous chemicals. Because labeling laws differ in the US and Canada, not all manufacturing companies are required to put chronic hazard warning labels on their products. It is still the responsibility of consumers to be aware of the potential hazards of the products they buy. Just because a product is on the market does not make it safe. Labels that say “nontoxic” can be misleading in that this applies only to severe hazards. Most products that are labeled carry only the minimum safety warnings.

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Health Hazards and Safety Tips for Artists