The Photography Area at USF has tried to minimize safety and health problems in the lab as much as possible but, because of possible risks associated with exposure to some of the chemicals and materials used in the lab, it is important that each student using the lab develop an awareness of how to handle equipment and chemicals in such a way that no one is endangered.

Please read the following carefully. All faculty, staff and students enrolled in photo classes or otherwise utilizing the lab are required to sign and return an acknowledgment that they have read and understand safety procedures and the risks associated with the use of the photo lab.

1) PROTECTIVE EYE GLASSES/GOGGLES MUST BE WORN AT ALL TIMES IN THE DARKROOM! 
Since nearly all of the chemicals used within the darkroom environment can cause eye burns, it has been mandated that safety glasses must be worn at all times when in the lab in order to protect from accidental spills or splashes.  Regular glasses or sunglasses are not sufficient – glasses must be safety approved as chemical resistant.  IF YOU DO NOT HAVE SAFETY GLASSES YOU WILL NOT BE ALLOWED WITHIN THE DARKROOM!  If for some reason eye contact with chemicals occurs, flush eye thoroughly with solution provided at eye wash stations.

2) RUBBER GLOVES AND APRONS ARE STRONGLY SUGGESTED (but not required) WHEN HANDLING CHEMICALS. 
Since many of the chemicals used in the darkrooms can be extremely poisonous and toxic, contact and absorption through skin should be minimized or eliminated.  Skin contact with chemicals may also cause burns, irritations or allergic reactions.  Should contact with skin occur, wash affected areas with plenty of soap and water for several minutes.  (Common sense would therefore dictate that you shouldn’t put your bare hands in any of the trays or beakers of chemicals)

3) PREGNANT WOMEN SHOULD CONSULT WITH THEIR PHYSICIANS BEFORE CONTINUING ANY ACTIVITY WITHIN THE DARKROOMS. 
Exposure to darkroom chemicals can be potentially toxic to the embryo or unborn children.  Please consult with a physician for more information.

4) MAKE SURE THAT DARKROOM VENTS ARE TURNED ON WHEN PRINTING! 
The fumes from photographic chemicals can be hazardous if they accumulate in an enclosed space.  Always make sure that exhaust ventilation fans are turned on!  When working in the darkroom, always know where the exhaust vent is located. When working in the private labs, open the door frequently during the session to allow for a better exchange of air.  To avoid accumulation of fumes, never leave unused trays of chemicals in the Private Labs.  Trays in the Gang Room should be covered when not in use in order to minimize vapor buildup.

5) NO FOOD OR DRINKS ALLOWED IN THE DARKROOM!
Since chemicals used in the darkrooms create airborne fumes, vapors and mists, any food or drinks brought into the darkroom environment can quickly become contaminated, meaning as you ingest your food, chemical toxins are also ingested.  Ingestion can cause liver and kidney damage.

6) ANYONE WITH PRE-EXISTING SKIN DISORDERS, RESPIRATORY PROBLEMS, EYE PROBLEMS, OR IMPAIRED LIVER OR KIDNEY PROBLEMS SHOULD CONSULT WITH THEIR PHYSICIANS BEFORE CONTINUING ANY ACTIVITY WITHIN THE DARKROOM.

7) Both the group and private labs have distinct divisions between the dry side and the wet side. You should have a hand towel with you while working in the lab and you should take care to dry your hands before handling the enlarger or any electrical equipment.

8) Keep your hands away from the dry mount press or mounting iron when they are heated. Exercise extreme caution when using mat knives or exacto blades. Spills in the lab should be mopped up immediately.