SAFETY EQUIPMENT
GLOVES
In warm glass work, there are two main situations that call for the use of
gloves: protecting the hands from heat and protecting the hands from caustic
chemicals.
Because the warm glass field sometimes involves the use of chemicals that may damage the
skin, it's a good idea to keep on hand a supply of thin latex
gloves and thicker plastic gloves. These are relatively inexpensive and should
be used anytime you are dealing with potentially dangerous chemicals.
Several types of gloves are available for protecting the hands from the heat.
The least expensive are welder's gloves, which are made of leather. Available
at most hardware stores for less than ten dollars (US), they will protect the
hands for temperatures up to about 500 degrees F.
Since leather has a tendency to hold heat (rather than dispel it), they will
quickly become very hot if you hold on to an item for too long. Despite this
shortcoming, they may be used for quick tasks such as grasping a hot handle to
open the kiln or removing a mold that's been heated and is ready for kiln wash
application.
You can get better protection from the heat by spending a bit more for a set
of gloves that contain Kevlar. Originally developed by DuPont, Kevlar is a form
of fiberglass. These gloves will not hold the heat the way that leather does, so
they can be used for longer without getting too warm.
If you plan to work in higher temperatures, consider "Zetex"
gloves. Zetex is a form of Kevlar that is especially formulated for higher
temperatures. In general, gloves that are lined with wool or cotton are
preferable to ones that are not.
RESPIRATORS
Good ventilation is essential in your work area, but situations sometimes
arise where ventilation alone can't keep potential harmful fumes and
contaminants away. In these situations it's a good idea to use a respirator.
There are two main factors to consider when selecting a respirator. First, it
is essential that the respirator be the right size. One size does not fit all -
an effective respirator should fit snugly around the face, so as to prevent
fumes from slipping in.
Second, you should get the right kind of respirator for the particular
contaminant you are trying to filter out. It may be possible to use a disposable
paper mask for minor dust or fumes, but many vapors and chemical mists will
require a more elaborate respirator that uses special cartridges to trap the
offending materials. Different cartridges may be needed for different
contaminants.
If you're not certain about which kind of cartridge to use or if your
respirator will protect you, consult an informed expert about the best way to
screen out the particular particles you're trying to safeguard yourself
against.
Respirators aren't necessary for every potential problem, nor do they need
to be worn continuously. It's even possible (though not exactly an act of
genius) to get along without one or to substitute a paper mask in some
instances. But if you intend to work frequently with chemicals or if you're
particularly susceptible to dust and fumes, money spent on a good respirator is
money well spent.
SAFETY GLASSES
It is essential that you own two different types of safety glasses. Clear
glasses, generally with plastic lenses, are used for protection when grinding,
polishing, or using other tools or machines that have the potential to throw off
small particles that could damage the eye.
Dark glasses are useful for looking into the kiln at high temperatures. You
need glasses that will protect your eyes from infrared rays. Welder's glasses
(use #3 to #5) are inexpensive and work well. Didymium glasses made for
lampworking are not sufficient.
For both kinds of glasses, make certain you select ones that fit well. Most
kinds available will easily fit over a second pair of glasses if necessary. It's
also possible to have special glasses made to a prescription if desired.
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to the final Supplies and Equipment topic, "Polishing Equipment."
