Health & Safety

Module 5

As Previous Modules

Module 4

As Previous Modules

Paper Making
Ensure water spills are mopped immediately, particularly from floors, to prevent slipping.

Natural Dyes
Ensure gloves are worn when using natural dyes to prevent allergies. Fabrics left to simmer should be in a pot large enough not to boil over and in a well ventilated area. Care should be taken to ensure dye bath is sufficiently cooled before straining.

Module 3

As Modules 1 & 2

Microwave Dyes
Wet all fabric, dry fabric may catch light in a microwave. I used liquid bought dyes. wear gloves and a bowl which is not used for cooking. Cover the bowl with cling film or a lid. After use clean the inside of the microwave, you can place peeled and sliced potato in the microwave which absorbs any stray particles when heated.

Glues
Use non-toxic glues whenever possible. Use in a well ventilated area. Wear gloves when possible or wash hands immediately after use to prevent skin irritation. Rinse well if glues gets into your eyes with water and seek medical advise.

Module 2

As Module 1.

Bleach
Always wear gloves when using bleach, work in a well ventilated area and in case of contact with skin or eyes rinse with water immediately.

Safe Storage
Always ensure items that may be hazardous are stored securely away from children and pets.

Module 1

An excellent site for Health & Safety in Art & Design is here.

I will add specific information as I work through the module.

Knives/Scissors
Ensure knives and scissors are properly sharp; there is less of a hazard then when they are blunt. Use only the correct handle on blades.

Procion Dyes
Allergic reactions may occur if the powdered dye is inhaled. Take care when mixing dyes, wear a dust mask and gloves and work in a well ventilated area. Keep any stored solutions clearly labelled and away from children.

Electrical Flexes
Do not trail flexes across floors whenever possible, if unavoidable use tape to secure them down to avoid trip hazards. Unplug electrical equipment when not in use.

Discarded Sharps
Keep all discarded sharp items, i.e. needles, blades, in a temporary secure container, such as a tough plastic or glass container with a screw lid, until they can be disposed of safely. A local pharmacy will usually dispose of sharp items for you.

Melting & Heating Fabrics & Materials
Work in a well ventilated area to minimise inhaling fumes, or outdoors if possible. Use a stand to ensure the hot tip of the soldering iron is safe.