All KPS Clays Conform To ASTM D-4236 Standards And Are Certified Non-Toxic.

Kickwheel Pottery Supply, Inc. has voluntarily submitted all KPS clay formula to a well known, certified toxicologist for evaluation. They are certified to be non-toxic. There are no materials in any significant amount to pose a threat to your general health.

This page is designed with your ceramic safety in mind. All information below is offered in a spirit of protection for all clay users and represents our information, at the time, concerning the best ways for you to be proactive in your clay use. Good housekeeping and plain common sense are your best friends.

STUDIO SAFETY:

The problems that will be dealt with here are clays in the dry state.

• Work in a well-ventilated area.
• Do not eat, smoke or drink in work area.
• Wear a respirator when mixing or spraying glazes or when cleaning your studio area.
• Always prevent dust stir-ups. Use a wet mop, put down dust absorbent floor sweeping material if you must dry sweep.
• Clean a dry material spill as soon as it occurs, not later. Use a wet sponge, mop or an adequate industrial dust vac, like the Nilfisk.
• Clean all equipment & tools after use.
• Use water to clean whenever possible.
• Spraying should take place in a well ventilated area. Preferably with the aid of a dust extraction system or cubicle. Do not spray leaded glazes. Read all labels carefully.
• All packages of materials should be clearly marked for content.
• Use plastic gloves when working with stains.
• Do not dry trim your pots, clean up any trimmings when done.
• Never sand dry clay.
• Use a downdraft vent on you kiln if you are sharing air space with it while it fires or if you have common air ducts that backup into your living area.

SCHOOL, NURSING HOME, HOSPITAL AND INSTITUTION SAFETY:

• Follow above guidelines.
• Use only products that are properly labeled and are totally lead-free and non-toxic.
• Provide competent adult supervision.
• Ready-mixed clays are preferred because it eliminates the need for dry mixing and/or dry clay recycling.

GENERAL HOUSEKEEPING GUIDELINES:

• See Studio Safety above.
• Work surfaces and shelves should be wet mopped with a freshly rinsed sponge.
• Work on newspaper or paper towels to make clean-up easier.
• Discard unwanted scraps and trimmings in a plastic bag before it dries.
• Brushes should be rinsed out when done.
• All work surfaces, floors should be non-porous if possible.

GENERAL PERSONAL HYGIENE:

• No Ceramic product should be eaten or inhaled.
• Any cuts or open wounds should be protected from materials.
• Always wash hands and arms when done working, even if wearing gloves.
• Never re-use utensils "borrowed" from the kitchen for household use.
• Do not eat, smoke or drink in work area.

PERSONAL CERAMIC SAFETY EQUIPMENT:

• Kiln gloves should be used if you must unload a hot kiln. We prefer that you be patient and unload when air tamp.
• Dark-shaded glasses from a safety or welding supply should be used if you are looking into a hot kiln. #1.7-30 are recommended.
• An apron or smock will help protect your clothes from spills. Regular laundering is recommended.
• NOSH approved dust masks should be worn when working with dry materials and when forced into dry sweeping.
• Dust, mist and fume masks are also recommended for Raku firings. Many common colorants and materials will fume when heating.
• Use of an Orton downdraft kiln vent will not only protect your personal breathing air, your kiln will perform cleaner firings and your kiln will live longer.
• If pregnant, only use certified non-toxic products and use a downdraft vent if you have to fire a kiln.

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