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would take hundreds of pages to list how to protect yourself
from every individual chemical and particle. However, there
are several precautions that can be taken that will limit
overall exposure to many different chemicals and particles.
This site is focused on the inhalation dangers, and the
best way to protect yourself against both particles and
gases is to have good ventilation. Air needs to be circulating
both into the room and then to the outside. This will limit
the concentration and buildup of chemicals and particles
in the air.
On
top of normal ventilation procedures, it may be a good idea
to put an air
purifier in the room where you are working.
An air purification unit with a carbon
filter will remove gases from the air and a HEPA
filter will capture dusts and other particles. Especially
in a room where it is difficult to achieve the required
ventilation or for those who are sensitive to certain chemicals,
an air purifier is a good option. Also, an air purifier
with a carbon filter removes odor; this can be very useful
for painters and photographers, even more so if your studio
or darkroom is in your home.
Because
artists must work in close proximity to their artworks at
most times, many of the fumes and particles cannot be ventilated
quickly enough with a normal ventilation system or a room
air purifier. A particle mask can be used to filter out
dust and a gas mask may be used to filter chemicals in the
air. Gas masks, like most gas-removing air purifiers, use
activated carbon. Another solution is a source capture air
purifier. With a hose or similar attachment, an air purifier’s
intake can be placed directly next to the source, removing
both chemicals and particles from the air before they reach
the artist’s nose or mouth.
Once
again, all of these recommendations are only overall suggestions.
The best suggestion that can be given for specific products
is to read the labels. Note what ingredients are in the
products and any safety instructions. Never assume a product
is safe; even a different brand of product with the same
function may have different chemical properties and associated
risks.
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