Are You As Careful As You Should Be When Making Art?

What about using a dust mask or respirator when you are working around dust, particles or fumes?  In 2007 a mosaic artist friend wrote:

I am just beginning the art of mosaics....

Bling Pot

This year, 2012, she wrote:

You are correct. I have not posted in a while. I have developed severe COPD.  I used to smoke, but they told me that I would have had to have smoked 3 packs per day, since I was 13-yrs-old, to have lungs of a 85-year-old, and I am only 49. They have done tons of tests and all, and it was just the last several months that I discovered the reason, My ART!!!!!!

Blue Vase

 Please I beg you, no matter what, use a filtered mask while doing this kind of art. In smoothing out my glass edges with a grinding wheel I was still breathing in the tiny, tiny pieces of glass, and you can guess the rest....Some days are really bad and it is hard to even get out of bed, and surely not on the computer....

Rock Swirl Pot

How many times have you rushed out, bought supplies for a new technique, and rushed home to do it? Did the supplies include gloves, safety goggles and most of all, filtering masks?  Do you fall victim to the issue of lack of space, and avoid digging in boxes and bins for your safety equipment when you want to craft?  I think some of you have your pretty art stuff within reach, but maybe because of necessity, your safety supplies are stored out of reach.

Palm Trees

What about lack of time?  Does it cause you to rush to your table, grab up your tools and start working on your project?  Do you sling your glues every which way thinking you are safe because either you don't smell them, or you're not going to have to use them very long this time? 

Suns For The Wall

Do you know why I'm asking?  Because I am guilty of course.  Sometimes I put on my mask, and sometimes I don't.  Sometimes I take time to put on my goggles, and sometimes I don't feel like it.  I look to purchase more craft media and tools, but I don't think about upgrading my dust masks.

Pink Fish

Remember to take more time for safety because it's not worth it not to.  Read completely the instructions on all of your bottles, cans and jars, and follow them.  Buy and use filter masks, safety goggles and gloves.  Keep an eye out for other tools and supplies that will help make your work space safe and secure.

Dust Mask Respirator Filter Safety Face Protection

Particulate Respirator Mask with Exhale Valve

Microfiber Filtering Mask

Half Facepiece Respirator 6000 Series

Neoprene Carbon Mask - Multi-Purpose Dust Mask

Particle Respirator N95

Cartridge & Airline Full-Facepiece Respirator

HEPA Mask
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