Obtain the MSDS on all solvent products used.Most solvents, except chlorinated hydrocarbons, are also either flammable or combustible.Swallowing an ounce of turpentine can be fatal. This can also increase the chances for mistakes and accidents. High concentrations of most solvents can cause dizziness, nausea, fatigue, loss of coordination, or coma. Inhalation of solvent vapors is the major way in which solvents are harmful.
Many solvents can also be harmful through skin absorption. Repeated or prolonged skin contact with solvents can cause defatting of the skin and resultant dermatitis.Organic solvents are used in printmaking to dissolve and mix with oils, resins, varnishes, and inks, and to clean plates, rollers, tools, and even hands. In general, organic solvents are one of the most underrated hazards in art materials.
If dry pigments are mixed, wear a NIOSH-approved toxic dust respirator.
The classic example of a toxic inorganic pigment in printmaking is lead chromate (chrome yellow).For normal printing with prepared inks, the main hazard is accidental ingestion of pigments due to eating, drinking or smoking while working, or inadvertent hand to mouth contact. Pigment poisoning can occur if pigments are inhaled or ingested.There are two types of pigments: inorganic pigments, and organic pigments. Pigments are the colorants used in lithography, intaglio, and relief printing inks. An alternative is to place the oil-soaked rags in a pail of water. Place oil-soaked rags in self-closing disposal cans and remove from the studio each day.Take normal fire prevention measures (e.g. Do not use an open flame to heat linseed oil, linseed oil, varnishes, or burnt plate oil.Obtain the material safety data sheets (MSDSs) on all products used. Oil vehicles are flammable when heated, and rags soaked in these may ignite by spontaneous combustion.
While linseed oil is not considered a hazard by skin contact or inhalation, ingestion of large amounts of some treated linseed oils might be hazardous due to presence of small amounts of toxic heavy metals. Oil-based inks contain treated linseed oils. There can be additional hazardous binders or preservatives, etc. Intaglio, lithography and relief inks consist of pigments suspended in either linseed oil or water as a vehicle.