DEPARTMENT OF VISUAL ARTS CREATIVE PHOTOGRAPHY & EXPERIMENTAL MEDIA: 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. When handling hot lights, use the provided gloves to protect hands. These lights can get very hot and should be used with caution. Use sandbags to secure studio lights from falling.
4. Eating, drinking and/or smoking in class is not permitted in order to avoid accidental ingestion or exposures of toxic materials.
5. Exercise caution when using the dry mount press. Use provided boards to sandwich the print and avoid any burning from the heat. Always be sure to turn it completely off when no longer in use.
6. Goggles should be worn when a potential splash from a hazardous materials exists. If mixing film developer or working with chemistry in the darkroom, wear gloves, goggles, and an apron for protection.
7. Never dump fixer down the drain. Fixer should be disposed of in the appropriate containers.
8. Exercise caution when handling sharp objects such as X-Acto knives, mat cutters, paper cutters, etc. All sharp tools must be covered or put away when not in use.
9. 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. Utilize the spill kit when necessary.
10. 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 into the regular trash.
11. Report any accident, injury, illness and/or safety hazard(s), however, minor, to your instructor immediately.
12. 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.
13. Expectant mother/nursing mothers: chemical solvents are known to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm. Avoid exposure to any solvents or hazardous materials.
For more safety-related information, visit: http://ehis.fullerton.edu