Health and Safety Guidelines – Enamelling
Enamelling like many activities is potentially hazardous. Accidents are extremely rare but we must do everything we can to avoid any risk. Please ensure you read and understand the instructions below. If there is anything you are unsure of please ask. If you are unclear about anything – please ask.
- Please make sure you know the nearest emergency exit and the relevant evacuation procedure. If you miss being told this information than please ask.
- No food or drink in the workshop except for bottled water. Wash hands after enamelling.
- When using a kiln, wear the heat proof gloves provided. For the first few times 2you should only use a kiln with tutor support.
- When removing work from the trivet, wait for it to cool for at least five minutes. It will generally then release itself as it cools. If it doesn’t because of an excess of enamel on the trivet, then use tweezers or tongs to do so as demonstrated by the tutor. This must be done very gently and carefully.
- Wear closed in shoes. Hair and scarves should be tied back. Wear suitable clothing for a workshop situation i.e. nothing too loose or flowing.
- Powdered enamels are hazardous and may be toxic. Use with care, avoid inhalation, ingestion and contact with skin. Wash immediately if skin becomes contaminated.
- When sifting enamels, use a clean sheet of paper to catch the excess. Slowly and carefully pour the excess back into the container to avoid creating a cloud of dust. Replace lid. Dispose of used paper by carefully folding and putting in the bin.
- Clean up your working area after each application of enamels and before firing. Use damp paper towels to clear spilt enamels if it can’t be salvaged.
- After using a sieve, tap under the table to remove dust.
- Before you place something in the kiln, check you have a heat proof surface next to you, to place it when it comes out.
- Allow fired pieces to cool thoroughly before touching. Be aware that the metal edges take longer to cool than the surface of the enamel.
- Take care not to distract someone when they have something in the kiln, especially when they are putting work in or out.
- Avoid peering into the kiln using the window. Remove piece and check after say a minute.
- Be aware of the possibility of ‘slip and trip’ accidents from items or spillages on the floor. Keep walkways clear. Where possible keep handbags etc. on a chair next to you or under your table where others will not trip over them.
- Anything you are not sure of – ASK THE TUTOR! Do not take chances.