Safety in the Arts
Taking part
in arts and crafts projects is an enjoyable and popular activity for many
children. However, we should be aware that art materials may contain hazardous
substances that can cause permanent health damage and even death. Examine
the labels of all arts and crafts materials carefully to see whether they
contain hazardous substances. When possible, use art materials that bear
the CP Certified Products Seal and/or the AP Approved Products Seal of
the (American) Art and Craft Materials Institute.
Children should not be allowed to eat or drink while working on arts and
crafts projects. They should not use art materials that will aggravate
any allergies or existing health conditions. Supervise all art activities
to make sure safe practices are being followed and that all materials
are safely stored away when not in use. In an emergency, immediately contact
the nearest poison control centre and keep the toxic product nearby for
label information.
ART MATERIALS TO AVOID |
ART MATERIALS TO USE |
|---|---|
| Powdered clay. It is easily inhaled and contains silica and possibly asbestos. Do not sand dry clay pieces or engage in other dust-producing activities. | Talc-free, premixed clay. After using clay, wet mop or sponge surfaces thoroughly. |
| Ceramic glazes or copper enamels. | Water-based paints instead of glazes. Adults may water-proof pieces with shellac or varnish. |
| Cold-water, fibre reactive dyes or other chemical-based commercial dyes. | Vegetable and plant dyes (such as onion skins, or tea) as well as food dyes. |
| Instant papier mâchés, which create inhalable dust and may contain lead or asbestos. | Make papier mâché from black and white newspapers and library or white paste. |
| Powdered tempera paints, which create inhalable dust and may contain toxic pigments. | Liquid tempera paints or paints an adult pre-mixes. |
| Pastels, chalks or dry markers that create dust. | Oil pastels, crayons or dustless chalks. |
| Solvents such as turpentine, toluene and rubber cement thinner. Also avoid solvent-containing materials such as solvent-based inks, alkyd paints and rubber cement. | Water-based products only. |
| Aerosol sprays. | Water-based paints with brushes or spatter techniques. |
| Epoxy, instant glue, airplane glue or other solvent-based adhesives. | Water-based white glue or library paste. |
| Permanent felt tip markers which may contain toxic solvents. | Water-based markers only. |
| Casting plaster. Besides creating dust, casting body parts can result in serious burns. | Adults can mix plaster in ventilated area or outdoors for sand casting and other safe projects. |
Resource
adapted from the CCCF Resource Sheet #21, Safety in the Arts. Permission
is not required to make photocopies of this resource for public education
purposes. Photocopies may not be sold. To purchase or reprint, contact
the Canadian Child Care Federation, 383 Parkdale Avenue, Suite 201, Ottawa,
Ontario, K1Y 4R4. Phone 1 800 858-1412 or (613) 729-5289. Fax (613) 729-3159.
Email info@cccf-fcsge.ca. Website
www.cccf-fcsge.ca.
© CCCF 2003
| The information contained on this website is for information purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice. If you feel you need medical advice, please see your health professional. |