Handling Solvents Safely

I’m concerned about the absorption of solvents through the skin. What is the best way to protect my hands? I also get a severe headache after working with oils. Is there anything I can do to prevent this? How do I dispose of solvents used to clean my brushes?

Barrier cream, available in art-supply stores, is a nongreasy conditioning cream removable with soap and water that protects hands from solvents. However, you should wear synthetic gloves when your hands are exposed to more than small amounts of solvents. Synthetic gloves are designed for different purposes so it’s important to read the label on the solvent to know what type of glove to wear in order to avoid absorption into the skin. Synthetic gloves should be changed every 15 to 30 minutes because they degrade quickly and also because some people may develop allergic reactions from prolonged wearing. For extra protection, barrier creams can be worn under synthetic gloves. Instead of cleaning brushes with solvents, you should clean them with a brush and a moisturizing solvent-free soap. If you are thinking “green,” however, you should know that disposing of synthetic gloves is not friendly to the environment.

If you get headaches from working with oil paint, it may mean there is not enough ventilation in your studio. Proper ventilation removes vapors in the air released by solvents. A good exhaust fan and an open window or door will provide a flow of bad air away from your face and allow fresh air to come in.

To dispose of solvents, collect them in an airtight metal container, which you can purchase or order at an art-supply store. Contact your local fire department, nearby school, or the health and safety office in your city or town to learn when and where hazardous materials can be disposed of. Air purifiers are another way to rid the air of fumes (see the “Buying an Air Purifier” question below).

Buying an Air Purifier

I need to buy an air purifier to rid the air of solvent fumes. Do you have advice on what type to look for? They are expensive, and I want to choose the right one. How do I compare brands and features?

High-quality air purifiers are designed to accommodate the particular volatile organic compounds (VOCs) produced in different environments—hospitals, schools, manufacturing plants, homes, and artist studios—so the first thing to look for is one specifically designed to eliminate and control odors and airborne chemicals associated with an artist’s studio. Under the category of air purifiers for artist studios, you’ll find systems designed especially for removing particulates—such as pastel dust from the air—and others designed for removing chemical odors, such as those produced by mineral spirits and petroleum-based solvents. There is even an air purifier that attaches to your easel, complete with changeable filters, that promises to capture both pastel dust and oil solvents. It is important to note that VOCs evaporate at room temperature and can be harmful whether or not they emit an odor.

The size of the space and the types of materials you work with will determine both the cost and the type of air purifier that is best for you. When researching air purifiers, be sure to inquire about maintenance features, such as the life of the filter and filter-replacement scheduling, how quiet the fan is, and if there is a warranty on the system. Most air purifiers use HEPA filters, and these are probably the best. HEPA filters were originally developed by the Atomic Energy Commission to protect the respiratory system from radioactive chemicals. Although costs can range up to a couple of thousand dollars, it is possible to purchase an air purifier for about $600 that will control and remove such VOCs as mineral spirits and petroleum-based solvents in areas up to 1,500 square feet.

Minimizing Pastel Dust

Do you have any advice about minimizing the effects of pastel dust?

A good way to minimize excess pastel dust is to place a damp paper towel on the ledge of your easel and lightly tap your pastel drawing with a bristle brush so that excess dust falls onto the towel. To make the easel ledge deeper you can fit it with a piece of foam board covered with aluminum foil and place towels on top. Spray the paper towels to dampen them and proceed as above. Keep moist towelettes with you so that you can frequently clean your hands as you work. Remember never to eat in the studio without thoroughly washing your hands with soap and warm water first. Vacuum frequently and avoid sweeping, which sends the pastel dust into the air.

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