DEPARTMENT OF VISUAL ARTS FOUNDATIONS (ART 103, ART 104): SAFETY PROCEDURES
The student safety procedures must be read and signed on the first day of your class.
Safety must be a primary consideration for all persons working with equipment, machinery, kilns, and dry and wet materials in Visual Arts. Work can be carried out safely if students follow the appropriate procedures and precautions. Students have the responsibility of learning and understanding the appropriate safety procedures for the work being conducted. Further, each student has an obligation to consult the instructor for help when safety procedures or instructions are not clear.
The following general procedures must be observed:
1. Before beginning the first session, your instructor will show you the location and proper procedures for the use of the safety and eye-wash station, as well as the emergency exits.
2. If you need to use the safety shower or eye wash station, flush affected area for a minimum of 15 minutes with large amounts of water.
3. Eating, drinking, chewing gum, applying cosmetics and/or smoking in class is not permitted in order to avoid accidental ingestion or exposure of hazardous materials.
4. Suitable personal protective equipment (I.e. goggles, gloves, respirator/dust mask) should always be worn when handling or operating the welding equipment, and all other tools and equipment in the studio which require safety protection.
5. Wear appropriate respirator to protect against flux, spray paint and/or polyester resin fumes, and a dust mask to avoid the inhalation of particulate matter such as saw dust or plaster dust.
6. Uphold the proper maintenance of all tools and equipment in the studio.
7. NEVER operate a tool or piece of equipment until you have first been given the necessary safety instructions by your instructor.
8. Avoid slipping and tripping hazards by practicing good housekeeping and making sure to wipe-up spills immediately and being cautious about the items left on the floor which can pose a potential tripping hazard.
9. Before waste is generated, your instructor will show you the proper waste containers. Use only containers designed for that purpose and make sure the container you use is the correct one. NEVER drain dispose of any chemicals or put them in the regular trash.
10. Report any accident, injury, illness and/or safety hazard(s), however, minor, to your instructor immediately.
11. Small fires can usually be extinguished by smothering. Fire extinguishers should be used only by trained personnel. Use them only if you are confident that you will be successful, and you know the proper procedures to safely use them.
12. Expectant mother/nursing mothers: chemical solvents are known to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm. Avoid exposure to any solvents or hazardous materials.
13. Try not to create an excess amount of charcoal dust, and DO NOT blow off excess pastel, chalk or charcoal dust with your mouth. Instead, tap off the built-up dust so it falls on the floor (or paper on floor).
14. Drawing fixtures and spray adhesives are not to be used within the university art center facility’s interior or exterior spaces. Instead they must be sprayed outdoors (at least 300-ft. From all buildings and intake systems), with care to protect walkways, building, and furniture.
15. Exercise caution when handling sharp objects such as X-Acto knives. All sharp tools must be covered or put away when not in use.
For more safety-related information, visit: http://ehs.fullerton.edu