Does Your Craft Room have an Exhaust Fan?
Your craft room is a space for you to explore your creativity and indulge your imagination. In order to keep this room a sacred and inspiring space for creating, it must also be safe and healthy.
Did you know that some of the craft products you use can be dangerous if used in a room without proper ventilation? In the Art and Craft Safety Guide, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission explains that some paints, stains, adhesives, and other chemicals can release dangerous chemicals into the air. While it is not clear what effect exposure to these chemicals can have after one time exposure, research does suggest that repeated exposure may be dangerous to your health.
The first step you can take in reducing your exposure to these dangerous chemicals is choosing a safer option whenever possible. Under the Federal Hazardous Substance Act, as explained by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, manufacturers of arts and crafts supplies are required to clearly label any products made with hazardous materials. When you are purchasing supplies for your crafting hobbies, check for options labelled as non-toxic. When possible, opt for water-based paint.
We understand that some crafts require specific products which many not have non-toxic options. When it is necessary for you to use these products, you can limit your exposure to dangerous chemicals. There are three big ways you can reduce the risk of dangerous exposure to toxins in craft materials:
First, you should always clean up thoroughly after completing a craft. This includes washing your hands and sealing your supplies in an air-tight container.
Secondly, never use these products in the same area you eat and prepare food.
Lastly, your craft room should have an exhaust fan to provide proper ventilation. Because your skin, nose, and mouth can quickly absorb the dangerous chemicals in arts and craft materials, properly ventilating your craft area is incredibly important, explains the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Exhaust fans not only reduce your exposure to contaminants while you are crafting, they also quickly remove chemicals from the air. This prevents the chemicals in the air from spreading to other areas in your home.
At WholeHouseFan.com, we want to help you keep your craft room comfortable and safe. We produce high quality exhaust ventilation fans. Our fans can be ordered in a quiet model, which is ideal for main living spaces, or in a higher-powered model for craft rooms and workshops where noise isn’t a concern. Give us a call today at 1.888.229.5757 for free expert advice on your situation and ventilation needs.