Handling photographic chemicals
Photographic chemicals and processing solutions should be handled with care.
The following tips are mainly related to the chemicals used in processing black and white photographic materials.
RTFM: Read the labels and follow the instructions carefully.
Packages of photographic chemicals usually carry safety labels. Only if there is no hazard during normal routine use will the package not carry such a safety label.
Store chemicals and processing solutions safely
Always store processing solutions and chemicals out of the reach of children. Do not store chemicals or solutions in a refrigerator that is used for food, as they could contaminate food or be mistaken for edible materials.
Keep your lab clean
Wipe up chemical spills as soon as possible. Powdered chemicals or residues from dried solutions can become airborne and be inhaled, or they can contaminate other processing solutions.
Wear protective clothing
It is best to wear a waterproof apron and rubber gloves when mixing and using solutions – if only because of the stains that are hard to get out and the stench that can stick to your hands. Always wear safety glasses or goggles when handling acids or alkalis!
Careful handling of chemicals
Avoid skin contact with chemicals whenever possible. Wash hands if accidental contact with chemicals occurs. If you get chemicals in your eyes, immediately wash your eyes under running water for at least 15 minutes (acids and alkalis!) and seek medical attention if necessary.
Some components of photographic solutions can cause allergic skin reactions. Such reactions are mostly caused by developers, but can also be caused by other solutions.
Keep chemicals and solutions out of your mouth: Although most photographic processing solutions have low oral toxicity, they should not be placed in the mouth to prevent potential problems. For example, never start a purging action by mouth. Do not eat food in areas where chemicals are mixed or used.
Proper ventilation
Vapors from black and white processing solutions are not normally a problem, but acetic acid vapors may be generated. Sulfur dioxide can also be released from fixing baths. In some people, these fumes can cause headaches. Therefore, all processing rooms should be adequately ventilated.
Dispose of used chemicals safely
The easiest way to dispose of used photo solutions is, of course, to pour them down the drain. If you do this, please rinse with plenty of clean water! To avoid unwanted chemical reactions between the solutions, dispose of the chemicals one at a time, running plenty of water down the drain each time.
However, since the discharge of most chemicals into the sewer system is a potential source of water pollution, they should be collected separately (say in 5L canisters) and taken to the local waste management facility