Safety Procedures for Studios

Studio Safety Procedures (.docx)

General 

• The responsible faculty member will establish rules for eating and drinking in the studio. These rules must be always followed. No exceptions! 
• Proper decorum is essential. Practical jokes or goofing around is not acceptable. 
• Never block exits. Aisles must be kept open and emergency equipment, eyewashes, and safety showers must always be accessible. 
• Use materials and equipment only for their intended purpose or as directed. 
• Always ask for assistance if there are any questions about proper procedures or safety. 
• Notify the faculty member if an injury, spill, or any unexpected event occurs. 
• Notify the faculty member if symptoms of exposure to hazardous material are experienced.
• Visitors are permitted only under the direct supervision of a faculty member. 

Protect Yourself and Your Belongings 

• Bring only required materials into the workspace. Leave coats, books, and other unnecessary materials in the designated area. 
• Scarves must be removed prior to entering the studio. 
• Wear closed toe shoes. Bare feet, sandals, flip-flops, and perforated shoes are not permitted. 
• Loose clothing and long hair should be confined.
• Contact lenses may exacerbate eye injuries. It is best not to wear them when there is a potential for exposure to vapors, dust, or splashes. 
• Know the location of safety equipment. 
• Avoid direct contact with any hazardous substance. 
• Use protective equipment and apparel as appropriate or as directed by the faculty member.
• Inspect the equipment before use. Replace equipment that becomes damaged, worn or contaminated immediately. 
• Wash hands and exposed skin on arms before leaving the studio. 

Reduce Hazards 

• Keep all work areas free of clutter and obstructions. 
• Ensure that all containers are labeled. Lids should be closed when containers are not in use. 
• Materials should only be used as intended by the manufacturer. A faculty member must be directly involved if different uses or treatments of materials are contemplated. 
• A faculty member must be available when working with open flames or heat guns. 
• Inspect all power tools prior to use. Do not use damaged tools. 
• Kilns, presses, power tools, and other specialized equipment must be used only by individuals instructed in proper operation or under the direct supervision of properly instructed individuals. 
• Work with solvents must be performed only in designated areas. 
• If breakage or spills occur, take appropriate steps to ensure the safety of all. Contact the proper authority while ensuring no one enters the area. 
• Clean area when work is finished. Ensure that equipment is disconnected and stowed. Store all chemicals properly. 
• Follow instructions for the management of waste. Never dispose of any material in the sink unless a faculty member has indicated that this is acceptable. 
• If unsure about safe methods for conducting an activity, ask a faculty member. 

Faculty Scholarship

Associate Professor Shane Harris teaches Ceramics and Sculpture courses ranging from introductory ceramics, Advanced ceramics, Ceramic Technology, Flatpack Design, Sculpture, and 3-D design here at UIS. He is a Professional Artist, working with small-scale ceramic sculptures, which explore concepts of connection, intimacy, body language and relationships. His work has been acquired for multiple private collections, published and shown nationally in both solo and group exhibitions. A few are highlighted below:

• “Biomorphic” was held at the American Museum Of Ceramic Art, Pomona, CA in 2016.
• “5 x 5 x 5” was held at Red Lodge Clay Center Gallery, Red Lodge, MT in 2016.
• “Vignettes” was held at the Perkinson Art Gallery, Millikin University, Decatur, IL in 2016.
• “Eye Candy” was held at the MCC Ray Frederick Gallery, Marshalltown, IA in 2016.
• “The Best of 500 Ceramics Celebrating a Decade in Clay” Lark Books, in 2012.

To read more, visit Shane Harris’ Faculty Page.

Assistant Professor Brytton Bjorngaard teaches Digital Media & Photography courses ranging from introductory design technology, Print Design, Web Design, Typography, Animation, to Film & Digital Photography here at UIS. She is a freelance graphic designer, working with a variety of clients, and an exhibiting artist, in which her work investigates the myriad of ways we miscommunicate.

• “Otto Cricket Hits” was held at the LLCC James S. Murray Gallery, Springfield, Illinois from August 22 to September 15, 2016
• “Let the Words Fall Out” was held at the UIS Visual Arts Gallery, Springfield, Illinois from August 24 to September 17, 2015.

To read more, visit Brytton Bjorngaard’s Faculty Page.