Health & safety in a ceramics studio

Here at ClayMake we take your and our health pretty seriously. Here are a few things to keep in mind.

CERAMIC DUST:
 Inhalation of all clay materials, especially silica, can damage your lungs.
 All clay bodies contain some free crystalline silica which can scar your lung tissue and cause irreversible loss of breathing capacity.
 It is the finest, least visible particles that can stay in the air for hours that are the most dangerous because they are the most easily respirable and because we are less likely to wear a mask when the air seems clear.

​Minimise exposure:

•  Do not create dust: do not sand dry clay – use a wet sponge. If you have to sand bisque ware or plaster use wet-and-dry sand paper and lots of water (immerse object in the bucket filled with water).
•   Clean your work area at the end of your session. This includes tools and equipment, tables, walls and floor.
•  Never sweep the studio. Use the bucket and the mop and change the water frequently.

You can find more information here: 
https://www.consumernotice.org/environmental/silica-dust/
https://www.consumernotice.org/environmental/silica-dust/silicosis/


TOXIC SUBSTANCES:

•  All containers with toxic glaze materials are clearly labelled and stored in a locked cupboard.
• All glazes in the studio are safe to the best of current knowledge and do not contain lead or barium.
•  Please read the list of ingredients when purchasing ceramic glazes or colourants.

ACCIDENTS AND FALLS

• Ensure that area is not cluttered – tidy your workspace.
•  Be aware of spills and wet floor – mop and dry or restrict access.
•  In case of accident please inform the studio manager/tutor.

HEAVY LIFTING

• Keep all heavy glaze buckets on their wheels to avoid injury.
• Use trollies to move heavy objects – ask a studio manager if you can’t locate one.