- Set up your workspace or studio in an well-ventilated area that can be secured against children, as well as pets and wild animals (if outdoors). Lampwork produces several kinds of hazardous gases as well as metal vapors; choose a well-ventilated area for your workspace so that exposure to fumes and gases is kept to a minimum. These gases include carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide. Symptoms of overexposure to these fumes include nausea, headaches and dizziness. Leave the area and seek medical attention if you experience these complaints while lampworking. Keep necessary safety equipment, such as a fire extinguisher, in good working order and easily accessible in the studio.
- When lampworking, pull hair back or wear a hair net. Flame-retardant clothing or natural fabrics which do not melt are the best choice for work clothes. Synthetics are not recommended for working with flame, as the heat may melt the fabric, offering opportunity for injury. In addition to these basic precautions, many types of protective clothing and gear are available for the lampworker. The most important piece of safety equipment is protective eyewear, which should be worn at all times when lampworking. Safety glasses are not only used to protect the eyes from glass chips, but also to protect the eyes from harmful radiation. During the lampworking process, the artist is exposed to different kinds of radiation in the lampworking process, including UV and infrared spectrums, and special glasses are available for this purpose. Other protective gear includes flame-retardant gloves for handling the hot materials, and facial masks, to prevent breathing particles as well as fumes from the torch.
- Follow all manufacturer's instructions regarding torch and fuel tank operation, storage and maintenance. Keep fuel tanks outside and check the hoses and seals on a regular basis. Never store a gas tank in the home, as this is dangerous and a violation of fire code. Connect your fuel tanks to flashback arrestors, safety devices which prevent the flame from burning back into the tank and causing an explosion. When in the studio, make it a habit to keep the fuel turned off whenever the torch's flame is not needed, preventing accidental fuel leakage.
- If using chemicals to etch or finish beads, other safety concerns apply. Use eye protection and gloves when working with chemicals and have a sink available for washing in the event of a chemical spill. Keep your chemicals in clearly marked containers out of reach of children and pets. Never reuse your containers for home use, i.e. food storage. Familiarize yourself with the specific usage of each chemical and keep antidotes for burns in your first aid kit.
- Lampworking is a skill that requires much practice and should be learned under the supervision of experienced professionals before being practiced alone. Done responsibly, this is a rewarding and safe hobby that can provide years of enjoyment and a portfolio of intricate beads to share with family and friends.
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