Student Safety procedures in Workshops

Maintaining a safe environment in the Painting workshop is crucial to prevent accidents and injuries. Here are some essential safety rules:

• Wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear appropriate PPE, including safety goggles, hearing protection, dust masks, and sturdy footwear. Gloves should be worn when handling wood with splinters but avoided when operating machinery to prevent entanglement.
• Keep the Workshop Clean: Maintain a tidy work area. Clear away sawdust, offcuts, and debris to minimize the risk of slips, trips, and fire hazards.
• Use Tools and Machines Properly: Only use tools and machinery you are trained to operate. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and never bypass safety guards or mechanisms.
• Check Tools and Equipment Before Use: Inspect tools and machinery for damage or malfunction before each use. Do not use damaged or defective equipment.
• Secure Workpieces: Use clamps or vices to securely hold workpieces in place during cutting, drilling, or sanding to prevent them from moving and causing injury.
• Disconnect Power Before Adjusting or Servicing Machinery: Always turn off and unplug machinery before making adjustments, changing blades, or performing maintenance.
• Avoid Loose Clothing and Jewellery: Wear fitted clothing and remove all jewellery to prevent anything from getting caught in machinery.
• Maintain Good Ventilation: Ensure the workshop is well-ventilated to reduce the inhalation of dust and chemical vapours from finishes or adhesives.
• Know the Location of First Aid and Fire Fighting Equipment: Be aware of the location of first aid kits, fire extinguishers, and fire exits. Ensure you know how to use them.
• Store Materials and Tools Safely: Store heavy materials at a low level and sharp tools securely to prevent accidents. Ensure flammable materials are kept away from sparks and open flames.
• Use a Push Stick for Small Workpieces: When sawing small pieces, use a Stay Focused: Avoid distractions and never operate machinery when tired or under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• Learn Emergency Procedures: Know what to do in case of an emergency, including how to stop machines quickly and the route to the nearest exit.
• Educate and Supervise: Ensure everyone in the workshop knows the safety rules and supervise inexperienced workers closely.
• Signage and Instructions: Safety rules, emergency contacts, and operating instructions are prominently located on signage in the workshop.
• Following these safety rules can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and injuries in the Painting workshop.

Darkroom Photography

• In the darkroom we work with enlargers (electricity) and black-and-white photography chemicals (water). We have a dedicated ‘dry area’ and ‘wet area’ so that electricity and water do not mix.
• When chemicals are exhausted (not usable) make sure to inform the photography technician and they will dispose of them correctly, either recycling the chemical or getting it safely disposed of.
• To ensure our contact prints are in focus, we use a piece of glass to press down and hold the two sheets of paper firmly together. Each piece of glass has tape around the edges so one can easily see them under the darkroom red light. If a piece of glass is to break, do not touch the broken pieces, rather inform those around you to steer clear of the area and inform the photography technician, who will safely dispose of the broken glass.
• Shoes are always to be worn in the darkroom, in case of splashing chemicals. We also encourage darkroom users to wear aprons and gloves when appropriate.
• Ventilation should be switched on before your darkroom session begins.
• Before leaving the darkroom, make sure all enlargers are unplugged and all taps are switched off, as well as the red lights and ventilation.

 

Studio Photography

• In the photography studio we work with specialized studio lighting that requires being mindful of extension cords and electrical flow.
• Only trained senior photography students are allowed to handle the lights and work in the photography studio.
• Always wear shoes when handling the lights, and make sure that cords are not tangled or overlapping.
• When changing the light accessories, always ask the technician for help if you are removing or placing a softbox accessory.
• When changing a paper backdrop, you will need two people to install it, using two ladders safely. Do not stand on the red step of the ladder. Only those who have been taught how to use a ladder are allowed to do so.
• Make the studio lights sturdy by weighing them down with sandbags, to prevent tipping over the lights.
• If any of the light bulbs are not working, ask the photography technician to change the bulb, do not attempt to do this yourself.
• The studio lights heat up in a few seconds, make sure that no covers are on the lights before they are turned on. Never touch the protective glass, modelling lights or flash tubes with your bare hands.
• No eating or drinking is allowed in the photography studio.
• Outsiders who have not trained to be in the studio, such as a model for a student’s project, need to be given permission to be in the studio by the photography technician.
• Check the load-shedding schedule before you shoot. If the electricity is going off when you have the studio lights on, make sure to power down the lights before they go off. The generator will kick in and the power will come back on, and you may resume your shoot. When the power is scheduled to go back on again, once again power down the studio lights before it goes off and then on again.

Many of the materials and equipment used in printmaking are dangerous if handled incorrectly. Please observe the following safety practices to ensure you and your fellow student’s safety:

• SOME SOLVENTS ARE HIGHLY FLAMMABLE. PLEASE NOTE WHERE THE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS ARE LOCATED.

• PROTECTIVE CLOTHING AND GEAR MUST BE WORN WHERE NECESSARY I.E. APRONS, GLOVES, DUST MASKS, FACE MASKS, GOGGLES, HEARING PROTECTION AND SHOES!
• USE THE EXTRACTOR FANS/FUME BOXES WHEN WORKING WITH VOLATILE SUBSTANCES AND OPEN WINDOWS WHERE NECESSARY.  FULL FACE MASKS ARE AVAILABLE FROM TECHNICIAN IF WORKING FOR EXTENDED TIME WITH CHEMICALS.
• PLACE DIRTY (UNUSABLE) RAGS IN THE RECYCLABLE RAG BINS (RED) AND SOLVENT RAGS THAT CAN STILL BE USED, IN THE RAG TINS/CONTAINERS**.    
• PLEASE REPORT ANY FAULTY, BROKEN OR SUSPECT EQUIPMENT OR ANY SITUATION THAT MAY CREATE A HAZARD.
• REPLACE LIDS ON SOLVENTS AND INKS AFTER USE AND STORE IN CUPBOARDS OR FUME CUPBOARDS WHEN FINISHED.
• NOTE THE LOCATION OF THE FIRST AID BOX. IT CONTAINS EYE WASH AND VARIOUS BASIC FIRST AID SUPPLIES.
• THE MOVING PARTS OF SOME EQUIPMENT CAN CATCH ONTO LOOSE CLOTHING AND DANGLING ITEMS, ALONG WITH BODY PARTS! PLEASE TAKE CARE. 

 

LAST PERSON TO LEAVE WORKSHOP,

PLEASE make SURE:

 

1.    HOT PLATE, FUME EXTRACTORS, LIGHTS ARE SWITCHED OFF

2.    ALL SOLVENTS HAVE BEEN RETURNED TO THE FLAMMABLE CUPBOARD AND LIDS REPLACED.

3.    ACID BATH AND EXTRACTOR SCREENS ARE PULLED DOWN

4.    SURFACES, SLABS, ROLLERS, SPATULAS, SQUEEGEES ETC. ARE PERFECTLY CLEAN AND THE WORKSHOPS ARE LEFT TIDY.

5.    BLOWDRIER / VALUABLE APPLIANCES ARE PUT AWAY / RETURNED TO TECHNICIAN

6.    WINDOWS ARE CLOSED

 

SCREENPRINTING

Darkroom Procedure

• Coat your screen with Sericol Disarol 125 Emulsion. It is water-based but should not be digested, also dangerous if in the eye. Wash immediately with water.
• Keep a screen in the drying cupboard, name on the screen, and doors closed. Let the screen dry. Switch on the dryer.
• Ready to Expose
• Switch the exposure unit on
• Place acetate photocopy on glass, the screen on top, close, suction till 80, and lift glass.
• Pull curtain. Expose your screen= certain time will be given to you: also read notices in the darkroom
• Rinse
• Switch off the suction pump. Open carefully, and take the screen from the glass.
• Rinse with lukewarm water until the image reveals itself.
• Look into the light to see that all positive image particles shine through the screen mesh
• Equipment
• Printing Unit: Make sure you slide your screen into brackets on screen printing presses.
• Tighten screens and bars. The screen arm will lift easily with your screen attached properly.
• Use registration for paper (acetate clips on double sided tape=to be made)
• INK is water based but should not be swallowed or get into the eyes. Rinse immediately with water.

 

CLEANING UP

• Screen Emulsion Remover Liquid: hazardous. Put the extractor fan on, and wear goggles and gloves. Cover/spray screen with screen wash, brush into mesh with soft brush (both sides)
• Ghost remover: hazardous. Work at the extractor fan. Wear gloves and goggles
• Power Hose: Wear earmuffs when working with the power hose, very load, and can damage the ear drum.
• Ink Remover & Variohaze Use in conjunction with stubborn stains on the screen. Use the cellulose sponge provided.

 

OFFSET LITHOGRAPHY PRINT

Making use of the Darkroom = Safe Procedures

• Switch on the air ventilation as soon as you enter the room
• Take down the glass carefully, place the photocopy and photosensitive plate onto the glass
• Switch on the suction pump at the wall by the door, and wait till it reaches 80
• Switch on the exposure unit, wait 5 minutes
• Lift the glass carefully. (if it happens to break, don’t touch the glass, seek assistance from Madelize immediately.)
• Pull curtain closed
• Expose your plate, guidance will be given by Madelize/ Lecturer
• READ THE PROCEDURE on WALL if YOU NEED MORE GUIDANCE

 

Developing your plate (WASH-UP room)

• After exposure, switch off the suction pump
• Lower the glass
• Take your photosensitive plate out (open the mechanism carefully)
• Carry the plate diagonally so it doesn’t bump anything
• Take a plate to wash up the station
• Put on gloves
• Use the provided sponge to quickly cover it with water
• Start using the plate developer liquid (mix of 1 part to 8 parts) Make sure you use the correct labelled bottle
• Go over your entire plate evenly and spread the photo-developer over using the provided blue sponge
• Treat the image carefully and make sure everything comes out in accordance with your original image
• Remember to clean the edges
• Once you are satisfied you can take the plate out of the darkroom
• Take photocopies off the glass station

 

Post Development

• Take a plate to work studio
• Place on dry newsprint and table close to the extractor fan.
• Switch on the extractor fan
• Work with deletion paste and delete any unwanted areas
• Once you completed that step you are ready to put photo plate gum over your whole plate
• Buff the gum down making use of scrim.

 

READY to PRINT

• Take the plate to the Offset room, downstairs
• Put on an extractor fan = working with many chemicals
• Mix your inks – wear gloves: oil-based inks have certain toxins, and you want to keep your hands clean.
• Cut your paper – make sure you know how to cut paper
• Place the offset plate on the press
• Clean with a pink sponge and water, and make sure all the gum is off the plate.
• Load your test paper
• Stand at a safe distance from the machine
• Madelize will operate the machine, and work in tandem with her, grabbing paper and placing it in a dry rack

 

AFTER PRINTING

• Time to clean up: wear gloves re chemicals you will use
• Make sure the extractor fan for cleaning is on
• Clean your plate with Blue Paste Remover and cloth first, then use blue sponge to clean paste off, and green sponge to clean completely
• Clean paper bed with Ethanol
• Clean Offset blanket with Blanket & Roller wash
• Instructions on how to do it will be given to you by Madelize
• Make sure you are in control of the buttons at all times
• Clean the silver feeding rollers with Ethanol- instructions will be given by Madelize

 

CHEMICALS

Photo litho developer

Harmful if swallowed
May cause allergic skin reaction Causes severe eye damage Suspected of causing genetic defects Suspected of causing cancer

 

Positive Deletion paste

Inhalation Remove to fresh air. Ingestion If swallowed, call a physician immediately. Only induce vomiting at the instruction of a physician. Skin contact Wash off with soap and plenty of water. Eye contact Flush eyes with water as a precaution.

 

Photo Litho Gum

Severe if swallowed. Do not inhale, work at extractor fan. Causes irritation on skin.

 

Peak (Blue)plate cleaner

Harmful if swallowed or inhaled, keep ventilation in room, immediate fresh air. May cause allergic skin reaction. Causes severe eye damage

 

Ethanol

Highly flammable liquid and vapor. Causes serious eye irritation
Suspected of causing cancer. Suspected of damaging fertility

 

Offset blanket & roller wash

Harmful if swallowed. May cause allergic skin reaction. Causes severe eye damage  

 

Relief Print Project                                                                    

The aim of this course is to give students a thorough overview and exposure to the techniques and processes involved in Colour Reduction Relief Printing.   

There are certain precautions and techniques that need to be followed when working with/carving MDF:

1. MDF (Supawood) is manufactured using a substance called urea formaldehyde, which may be released from the material through cutting and sanding, and is harmful. Always work in a well-ventilated area.
2. Prior to painting Supawood all edges and surface need to be sanded with 240-grit sandpaper to remove the 'fluff' or soft material that is left after cutting. This process is essential for a smoothly painted edge and must be done outside. Dust particles can easily be inhaled or enter the eyes - NOT safe
3. Varnish the wood with the water-based varnish supplied. Clean rollers and tray after use with water.
4. Use Acetone and Thinners mix to transfer photocopy (laser print +-A2 size from Wizards)onto wood. Thinners and Acetone have very toxic fumes. Open windows, use gloves and wear a mask when you are doing the transfer.

5.     Carving: Always carve away from yourself, carving blades are sharp, and you will carve fingers. (you should know this from first-year experience)

 

PRINTING PRESS

1.     Always keep the press set, 15 over 3

2.     Do not put your hands close to the press, be careful not to roll fingers (or other body parts) into the press

 

Harmful Chemicals & Types of protection applicable to the project

Acetone + Thinners mix= transfer of laser image (extractor fan on/ mask + gloves)

 

ETCHING PROJECT

Etching is traditionally the process of using strong acid/mordant to cut into the unprotected parts of a metal surface to create a design intaglio (incised) in the metal. This course aims to give students a thorough overview and exposure to the techniques and processes involved in Etching.

• All the various fixed equipment in the printing studio
• Etching bath/basin = mordant or etchant - Ferric Chloride Acid (toxic) Extractor fan on, close the lid of etch basin. Do not touch the acid, wear gloves when working with acid.
• Rosin Box (Gum Acacia) particles are poisonous, should not be inhaled. Wear a mask and extractor on, and work within a space covered by plastic. Make sure you are on the other side of the plastic curtain when working with the aquatint box.
• Gas bottle=heating the rosin. Open the gas on lowest, be careful when lighting the fire and keep away from all flammable material.
• Etching press = always be aware of the correct setting/pressure. Example on the wall. Do not get your hands close to the roller.              
• Techniques
• Preparing, degreasing and grounding a plate= correct use of hotplate (Hardground/Softground)
• Drawing onto plate
• Etching line into the plate - Ferric Chloride Acid
• Aquatinting= Rosin box
• Safe use of gas cylinders and fire

                                                           

LITHOGRAPHY

Definition of lithography  The process of printing from a plane surface (such as a smooth stone) on which the image to be printed is ink-receptive and the blank area ink-repellent.

Equipment

Lithography stones - they are heavy, ask for assistance if you cannot pick it up. Make use of the trolley supplied.

Lithography Presses (large and small Takach, D&J Greig) Lecture/s and Technician, Madelize, will assist in setting the lithography press.

Once you are ready to print make sure you understand how the pressure and location of stone works while printing. This printing takes a lot of concentration, only if you feel confident you may print with a press

 

Harmful Chemicals

• GUM ARABIC =  Hazardous. Do not ingest
• weak/medium/strong etch = contain NITRIC ACID and gum Arabic.
• Nitric Acid is extremely Hazardous.
• Prevent making touch with the solutions. Use with precaution.
• Pure Turpentine. Hazardous fume. Wear Gloves when working with turpentine. Make sure windows are open and enough ventilation in the room.
• Bitumen: Wear gloves when working with Bitumen
• Lithography Ink, has toxic elements. Work safely with ink

Wear gloves when dealing with chemicals, open windows, switch on extractor fan

 

Monotype Project

• Monotype waterbased: all materials are safe/waterbased
• This course will explore the process of producing a monotype print (once-off) from concept to completion. Aquarelle paint, gum Arabic and pencils will be used.
• Monotype oil: The ink you use is oil-based and has certain toxins in it. Use carefully and don’t let ink spread on your hands and body. Make use of gloves provided. The Turpentine you use in conjunction to your creation is a toxic fume, be aware not to inhale for a long period of time. Linseed oil also has toxicity and should be handled carefully.

 

Relief Printing

Ink – toxic, wear gloves when working with inks as chemicals penetrate through the skin. Stain clothes, wear an apron/old T-shirt/not your fancy clothes

Carving Tools – make sure to cut away from yourself, keep hands/ fingers out of the way

(Mineral Turpentine - toxic, wear gloves: Always close the lid of the bottle when done, and use as little as possible. Open windows when using turpentine to clean.)

OIL & CLEENGREEN make use of oil to loosen the printing ink from the glass/ink up station and roller. Then use CleenGreen to wash up the oil. Make use of OIL rags, and CleenGreen rags. Keep using rags until you cannot use them at all due to dirtiness.

 

Metal workshop

Certainly, safety in a metal workshop, especially where welding and power tools are involved, is paramount to preventing injuries and maintaining a productive working environment. Here are essential safety rules tailored for a metal workshop:

1. Wear Proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Use safety equipment including fire-resistant clothing, gloves, aprons, safety goggles, face shields, and hearing protection. Specialized PPE for welding, like welding helmets with appropriate filter lenses, is essential to protect against bright light and UV radiation.

2. Ensure Adequate Ventilation: Welding and metalworking can produce harmful fumes and gases. Ensure the workshop is well-ventilated, and use exhaust hoods or respiratory protection as necessary.

3. Inspect Tools and Equipment Before Use: Regularly check all tools and equipment for damage or wear. Do not use damaged tools, and ensure all guards and safety devices are in place and functional.

4. Use Tools and Machines According to Their Instructions: Operate all machinery and tools following the manufacturer’s guidelines. Only use equipment you are trained and authorized to operate.

5. Keep the Workshop Clean and Organized: Remove clutter, scrap materials, and flammable substances from work areas to minimize the risk of trips, falls, and fires.

6. Secure Workpieces Properly: Clamp or securely fasten workpieces to prevent movement while cutting, grinding, or welding.

7. Handle and Store Materials Safely: Store heavy items at a lower level and sharp objects with care. Ensure flammable and hazardous materials are stored in designated, properly labeled areas away from ignition sources.

8. Disconnect Power Before Maintenance: Always turn off and unplug machinery before performing adjustments, changing accessories, or conducting maintenance.

9. Avoid Loose Clothing and Secure Long Hair: Wear fitted clothing and ensure long hair is tied back to avoid entanglement in machinery.

10. Practice Good Housekeeping: Clean up spills, dispose of waste materials properly, and regularly remove dust and metal filings to reduce fire hazards.

11. Know the Location of First Aid and Firefighting Equipment: Familiarize yourself with the locations of first aid kits, fire extinguishers, fire blankets, and emergency exits. Understand how to use them effectively.

12. Use Fire Resistant Screens or Curtains While Welding: To protect bystanders and nearby work areas from sparks and spatter, use appropriate screens or curtains.

13. Stay Focused and Avoid Distractions: Never operate machinery or equipment when you are tired, distracted, or under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

14. Educate Everyone on Safety Procedures: Ensure all workers and visitors are aware of the safety rules and emergency procedures. Offer regular safety training.

15. Implement a Check-In System for Working Alone: If someone must work alone, establish a safety check-in system to ensure they can get help in case of an emergency.

Adhering to these rules helps create a safer environment in a metal workshop, especially when dealing with the added risks of welding and power tools. Safety should always be the top priority, and regular training and vigilance can significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents.

 

Ceramics

Safety in a ceramic workshop is critical, especially when kilns are involved, due to the high temperatures required for firing ceramics and the potential for chemical exposure. Here are some safety rules tailored for a ceramic workshop environment:

1. Wear Appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Use safety goggles, heat-resistant gloves, and aprons when handling hot ceramics and kilns. A dust mask or respirator may be necessary to avoid inhaling dust from clay or glazes.

2. Ensure Proper Ventilation: Workshops must be well-ventilated to remove harmful fumes released during glazing and firing processes. Use local exhaust ventilation systems for kilns.

3. Follow Kiln Safety Procedures: Never leave a kiln unattended while it is firing. Be familiar with the kiln’s operation manual and understand all safety features. Ensure kilns are situated in a fire-resistant area with sufficient clearance from combustible materials.

4. Store Chemicals Safely: Glazes and other chemicals should be stored in clearly labeled, sealed containers. Keep them in a dedicated, secure area away from food and drink containers.

5. Use and Maintain Equipment Properly: Regularly check equipment and tools for wear or damage. Use all equipment, especially kilns and pottery wheels, according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

6. Avoid Silica Dust Exposure: When mixing dry glazes or clay, do so in a well-ventilated area and wear a respirator to avoid inhaling silica dust, which can be harmful to your lungs.

7. Handle Sharp Tools With Care: Ceramic tools can be sharp. Store and handle them with care to prevent cuts. Dispose of broken ceramics and sharp tools properly.

8. Keep Work Areas Clean and Dry: Slippery floors can be a hazard, especially in areas where water is frequently used. Clean up spills promptly and ensure walkways and work areas are dry.

9. Practice Safe Lifting Techniques: When moving heavy pieces of ceramics or supplies, use proper lifting techniques or seek assistance to avoid back injuries.

10. First Aid and Fire Safety: Ensure that first aid kits are accessible and that all staff know their locations. Fire extinguishers should be readily available and suitable for electrical fires and potential kiln fires.

11. Train in Emergency Procedures: All workshop users should know what to do in case of an emergency, including how to shut down equipment quickly and safely evacuate the area.

12. Limit Access to the Kiln Area: Restrict access to the kiln area to trained individuals only, especially during firing cycles, to prevent accidents.

13. Conduct Regular Safety Inspections: Regularly inspect the workshop for potential hazards and ensure that safety equipment is in good working order.

14. Educate on Hazardous Materials: Provide training on the hazards of materials used in the workshop, including proper handling, storage, and disposal methods.

15. Avoid Loose Clothing and Secure Long Hair: Wear fitted clothing and ensure that long hair is tied back to prevent entanglement in equipment or contact with wet clay, glazes, or hot ceramics.

By following these safety guidelines, ceramic workshops can minimize risks associated with the use of kilns, chemicals, and other hazards, creating a safer environment for creativity and craftsmanship.

 

Woodwork 

Maintaining a safe environment in a carpentry workshop is crucial to prevent accidents and injuries. Here are some essential safety rules:

1. Wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear appropriate PPE, including safety goggles, hearing protection, dust masks, and sturdy footwear. Gloves should be worn when handling wood with splinters but avoided when operating machinery to prevent entanglement.

2. Keep the Workshop Clean: Maintain a tidy work area. Clear away sawdust, offcuts, and debris to minimize the risk of slips, trips, and fire hazards.

3. Use Tools and Machines Properly: Only use tools and machinery you are trained to operate. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and never bypass safety guards or mechanisms.

4. Check Tools and Equipment Before Use: Inspect tools and machinery for damage or malfunction before each use. Do not use damaged or defective equipment.

5. Secure Workpieces: Use clamps or vices to securely hold workpieces in place during cutting, drilling, or sanding to prevent them from moving and causing injury.

6. Disconnect Power Before Adjusting or Servicing Machinery: Always turn off and unplug machinery before making adjustments, changing blades, or performing maintenance.

7. Avoid Loose Clothing and Jewelry: Wear fitted clothing and remove all jewelry to prevent anything from getting caught in machinery.

8. Maintain Good Ventilation: Ensure the workshop is well-ventilated to reduce the inhalation of dust and chemical vapors from finishes or adhesives.

9. Know the Location of First Aid and Fire Fighting Equipment: Be aware of the location of first aid kits, fire extinguishers, and fire exits. Ensure you know how to use them.

10. Store Materials and Tools Safely: Store heavy materials at a low level and sharp tools securely to prevent accidents. Ensure flammable materials are kept away from sparks and open flames.

11. Use a Push Stick for Small Workpieces: When sawing small pieces, use a push stick to keep your fingers away from the blade.

12. Stay Focused: Avoid distractions and never operate machinery when tired or under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

13. Learn Emergency Procedures: Know what to do in case of an emergency, including how to stop machines quickly and the route to the nearest exit.

14. Educate and Supervise: Make sure everyone in the workshop knows the safety rules and supervise inexperienced workers closely.

15. Signage and Instructions: Post safety rules, emergency contacts, and operating instructions prominently in the workshop.

Following these safety rules can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and injuries in a carpentry workshop. Always prioritize safety over speed or convenience.