darkroom usage

Darkroom General Safety Rules

• Only authorized persons are allowed to work in the room.

• Practice good housekeeping. Keep the work area clean and uncluttered to prevent tripping over hazardous chemical bottles.

• Always segregate chemicals. Don’t store acids near reducer!

• Use the least toxic chemicals available. Avoid cyanides, heavy metals, and developers containing pyrocatechol or pyrogallol when possible.

• Do not store chemicals on the floor.

• Do not eat, drink or smoke in the darkroom.

• Wear appropriate protective equipment whenever possible, such as gloves, goggles, etc.

• Always wash hands with soap and warm water after working with chemicals.

• Know how to use emergency equipment prior to an actual emergency.

• Always Add Acid to water, never water to acid. (Remember ‘AAA’)

• Do not use paper towels or sawdust to clean up acid spills as this may cause a fire.

• Pregnant women should not be exposed to powdered developer.

• Store all chemicals in locations that will minimize the chance of breakage and splashing.

• Label all containers.

• Keep all containers and trays closed or covered when not in use to prevent the release of toxic gases.

• All spent chemicals should be placed into an appropriate waste container.