Volume 5, Number 3, Sept. 1983, pp.5-6

Technical Exchange

Good News from ASTM
Hazard Labels on Art Materials Recommended

Uniform product labeling of chronic health hazards associated with art materials intended for individual or small group use is covered in a new standard completed by D01.57 on Artists' Paints and Related Material. D 4236, Practice for Labeling Art Materials for Chronic Health Hazards, was developed since there is no national standard for potential chronic health problems although there are laws on labeling materials for acute hazards. Subcommittee chairman Joy Turner Luke notes, "What the industry is concerned with are chronic problems, which result from the use of artist and craft materials over a long period of time--cancer or kidney disease--that may or may not be triggered by use of the materials."

The standard describes a procedure for determining the necessary precautionary labeling for various art materials such as paints, solvents, thinners, glazes, and clays. Examples of statements and phrases to be used on products, which describe the type of risk, are included. Specific hazardous ingredients of a material, with an explanation of the hazard and appropriate protection, are also to be enumerated. For more information on D01.57, a branch of Committee D-1 on Paint and Related Coatings and Materials, contact Joy Turner Luke, Studio 231, Box 18, Rt. 1, Sperryville, VA 22740 (703/987/8386). Copies of D 4236 can be ordered from ASTM Sales Service (215/299-5585).