

Use a half-face particulate or air-purifying respirator that meets Australian Standard 1716. Plastic sheeting, or newspaper for very small quick jobs, is much safer.
STAINED GLASS DESIGN TRIMMING FREE
Don't work on the kitchen or dining room table, or in any other area that you want to keep free of lead contamination. Cases of lead poisoning have occurred when children have picked up lead particles from their parents’ clothes and cars.ĭon't eat or smoke in the work area. Supplies that contain lead must be stored away from children, and have labels with safety information. It is also essential to keep young children away from working areas, work clothes, supplies and equipment. Keep yourself and your family safeīecause stained glass work involves direct contact with lead, pregnant women are strongly advised to stay away from stained glass activities, not only until the baby is born but also until after they have finished breast-feeding. To lessen the spread of lead dust from cutting old cames, wet them down before taking apart the old lead-light items, or use alternative methods such as cutting with a sharp knife or tin snips.įurther details on some basic safety precautions are listed below. It also sticks to hands, clothes and tools.
STAINED GLASS DESIGN TRIMMING WINDOWS
Working with stained glassīe careful if you restore old stained glass windows because over time, lead cames oxidise, causing a white powdery coating that rubs off very easily. The plaster and fillings around the glass are also a health hazard as they might have absorbed lead over the years. Lead dust can be generated from sawing old frames. Operating the soldering iron at very high temperatures releases more fumes than at lower temperatures. Lead fumes occur when the solder is melted. Any amount of lead fumes or dust is hazardous to your health, and so you should avoid exposure as much as possible. Working with stained glass and lead lighting often involves contact with lead fumes and dust.

Even occasional craftspeople are at risk. Unless handled carefully, lead cames and solders used in stained glass and lead lighting can be a health hazard if lead dust is swallowed or inhaled. Lead accumulates in your body, so even small amounts can pose a health hazard over time.

It is especially harmful to children, pregnant women and unborn babies. Lead is a toxic substance that can affect people of any age.
