Occupational health hazards of artists

Artists may be exposed to a variety of potentially noxious materials. The modern techniques they use imply exposure to environmental hazards. Occupational health was evaluated in individuals engaged in different arts such as sculpture, painting, printmaking, restoration photography, glass-work and ceramics, because of exposure to toxic chemicals in art materials, tools and methods used in their work. This evaluation demonstrated that artists sustain extensive exposure to toxic substances similar to occupational exposure of workers in different industrial settings. Hazards for artists are numerous and therefore it is important to identify the noxious materials and techniques used. Preventive measures should include basic safety, precautions, education and preventive medical surveillance.