A number of art materials and art exercises could be harmful. IOSH managing safely is then important for caregivers and teachers to have knowledge of basic health and safety to ensure the child’s security and protection. The course is open for caregivers and teachers in order to provide better care to children and for them to comply with basic regulations for choosing as well as storing art supplies and instruct kids the way to work with them correctly.

Read Labels

When choosing materials for art class, read the label to make sure that you are getting art supplies specifically designed for children. The label should read non-toxic, safe for children and certified by the ACMI (The Art and Creative Materials Institute).

Pick Products Cautiously

Do not assume that all art supplies and materials are safe for your child. When choosing the right art supplies for your child, here are some recommendations for using safe products.

• Stay away from instant paper mache as it may contain toxic materials.
• Opt to use black and white paper and organic paste.
• Waterbased markers are preferable.
• Use polyvinyl acetate glue. This is the safest for the kids.
• Don’t choose products containing solvents

List of products to avoid:

• aerosol spray cans
• airbrushes
• products that stain the skin and clothing and don’t wash out easily
• irritants and corrosive substances; alkalis, acids, and bleach.

Put preference to new art supplies over old supplies (usually supplies that are donated). Old supplies may have developed unwanted chemical reactions and may contain lead and mercury. Old paper materials may contain asbestos which is highly toxic to human consumption.

Safety Precautions

While doing art and crafts with the children, here are do’s and dont’s to protect the child and ensure safety.

• Do not encourage children to eat or drink while doing arts and crafts
• Wash up after every art activity. Clean the arts area and supplies.
• The place for clean up should not be used as a place of food preparation.
• Keep original packaging of art materials. Do not transfer to other containers.
• Never leave children doing arts on their own. They should always be properly supervised.

VIDEO: Clean Up, Care, and Safety for Kids

Paint Products

Paint can be dangerous especially when exposed and molds and bacteria have grown. The paint develops a strong and sickening odor that can be hazardous to one’s health.  Poster paints and other supplies usually include organic components that may rot away if not stored correctly or kept for a longer time.

Tips to store paint materials and keep it usable for the longest time possible:

• Stay away from powder paints that need mixing. Powder substances can easily be inhaled by children or can get to the children’s eyes easily. Liquid paints, talc-free,  and premixed clay are the best selection. Remove any residue after use.
• Keep the paint in its original container. Store in a cool and dry place.
• Tag containers with date of purchase. Oldest supplies should be consumed first.
• Shake the paint before use. Make sure the lid is secure before shaking.
• Use only enough paint for the day. Throw unused paints.  Do not return unused paints back to original container. Doing so will contaminate the other remaining paint.
• Do not work directly from the original paint container. Take only what you need and seal the container back. Use egg carton sections, or yogurt containers to hold paint while doing arts.
• Do not put brushes, or stick your hands or fingers to the container. Do not stir paint with stick. All these to avoid paint contamination.
• Avoid paints that has CL on the label. CL stands for Caution Label which means the products contains toxic substances and can be hazardous.