[Chemical occupational environment of artists (painting, graphic, sculpture]

Visual artists are exposed to chemical irritants with a potential for reactions of the skin and mucous membranes. Such reactions are probably prevalent, and the professional and health consequences may be serious for persons with a low tolerance. Exposure to organic solvents may be high in silk screen printing and reinforced polyester casting. However, the risk of toxic encephalopathy requires exposure for several years. Lead and other heavy metals, plastic monomers and carcinogenic agents are used in several techniques. The health risk from these chemical agents is considered to be small, except among artists using special techniques and work routines. Changes in daily work routines seem to be most important way of reducing the occurrence of health effects among artists.