Ceramic safety

Like any leisure activity, for the ultimate enjoyment, you want to stay safe and well. Pottery has a number of hazards to consider but if you are aware of them and follow good safety rules as part of your practice you can live a long and creative potter’s life.

Below are some golden rules about pottery safety that we ask members to comply with and the pottery and to take with you to your home studio. These guidelines are for both your health and the health of your fellow potters.

Air quality

Dust from dry clay and raw materials can cause a condition like Silicosis. 

Silicosis is a lung disease where fine particles settle in lungs. Fine particles will settle on your work surfaces, clothes, furniture, tools and floors etc.

  • Wet-wipe and mop floors, equipment and surfaces regularly.
  • Don’t leave clay and raw materials out to dry.
  • Don’t sand pieces or mix raw materials in enclosed spaces.
  • Wet down and wash aprons, towels and clothes regularly.
  • Don’t eat or drink near clay or materials (use a closed water bottle to keep hydrated).
  • Work in ventilated areas (but not in breezes).
  • Use a mask or ventilator and eye masks to protect materials from getting into eyes and mouth where required.
  • Wash hands regularly.
  • Put discarded clay into reclaim buckets and not down sink.

Proper equipment use

Apart from keeping equipment dust-free, consider if you are using equipment for its intended use. There is often water and electricity involved, or potentially dangerous items such as extruders, pug mills, slab rollers, heat guns, blow torches, wheels, and kilns.

  • Wear closed in shoes. 
  • Use appropriate safety equipment such as gloves, respirators and eye masks.
  • Keep equipment clean and well maintained.
  • Ensure sharp tools aren’t sticking out and sheath where possible.
  • Use safety plugs where possible for electrical items.
  • Clean and store equipment appropriately.
  • Follow instructions for equipment or check with others about the correct use.

Ergonomics

Sometimes when the creative juices are flowing you can forget to stretch and move! It’s also important to be mindful of lifting heavy items like bags of clay, kiln shelves, and equipment.

  • Lift correctly! Bend at the knees and know your limits!
  • Take regular breaks, stretch regularly, walk around, get a cuppa!
  • Don’t lift more than you can, ask for help!
  • Adjust stools to the right height to keep your back straigt while wheel throwing.
  • Do not perform repetitive activities (wedging, throwing, and trimming) in long sessions.

Food safe ceramics

For potters who make functional homewares for the kitchen it is important to understand how to make them food safe. It’s all about vitrification and choosing food safe glazes! Check out the video below for a full explanation. 

Useful links

You can find out more about best practice in pottery safety online. Here are some useful links.