N95 Particulate Respirator mask
This designation is an international standard for a general purpose respirator to filter out respirable quartz particles (which cause silicosis). Use one of these when working in a area where ventilation is insufficient to remove all of the dust. Use it also in circumstances where there is temporary generation of large quantities of dust. Do not wear this as a substitute for keeping floors and working areas clean.
Why is there a health warning on the top of each box of clay?
Like any dirt, clays contain quartz. Quartz particles, if inhaled in just the right size, can block the tiny air passages in your lungs. Quartz is all around us, it makes up about 12 percent of the land surface and about 20 percent of the Earth's crust. This label is a reminder to reduce dust levels in your studio and working area. You can see specifics about hazards of any of our products by clicking links (on any manfuacturers website) to view the SDS (Safety Data Sheet). It contains references to where you can learn more about working safely.
Related Information
Links
| Hazards | Quartz Toxicity |
|---|---|
| URLs |
http://www.crystallinesilica.eu
European Industrial Minerals Association Crystalline Silica website |
| Glossary |
GHS Safety Data Sheets
The Globally Harmonized System (GHS) of classifying and labelling chemicals presents material hazard information in a 16-section user-friendly data sheet. |
| Glossary |
Toxicity
The vast majority of materials used in ceramics are insoluble. But many still present hazards. And you can add hazards (to you and customers of your ware) by the way you use them. Still, there is a need to be realistic about it. |
By Tony Hansen 
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