Lately we have noticed a slight uptick in dust levels. Given how this can have negative health effects for people, we take this very seriously. Those 5-15 drops of clay water don’t seem like they matter, until 15 people have done the same thing, and now we have a fine layer of clay getting kicked into dust any time someone steps there.
If you touch clay, touch a mop!
Silica dust is a quick way to silicoses. Here’s what the CDC has to say on the subject, as well as an article from the Berkley Potters Studio.
The best way to avoid this while ensuring you and other members have a healthy workspace is by grabbing a mop to clean up after your work.
If you see other members ignoring the mop, politely remind them to keep the space clean and healthy.
Silicosis:
This lung disease is caused by inhaling silica dust over time. The silica particles lodge in the lungs, causing inflammation and scarring. This scarring makes the lungs stiff and less able to function properly, leading to shortness of breath, coughing, and fatigue.
This is what clay does.
This post is not meant to scare people, but rather bring attention to the dangers of working with clay. As will everything in a makerspace, there are inherent risks that require personal safety measures, and group safety measures to be in place in order to keep the workspace safer to work in.