health hazards of polaroid photography

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I am a voice student who has become interested in the visual arts. I am trying to find a medium to work in that doesnt interfere with my voice. I know that many of the chemicals used in photography, especially in development are very toxic and are respiratory irriatants in particular. Does Polaroid processing allow one to circumvent exposure to these chemicals? How about when one is doing image transfers or emulsion? I havent been able to find any information on the hazards of these techniques in particular and would really appreciate if soemone could either tell me or point me in the right direction. Thank you very much, Jessica Newman

-- jessica newman (newm7555@fredonia.edu), July 07, 1999

Answers

Jessica,

I called Polaroid with a similar question but their answer was vague at best. I am particularly sensitive to toxic chemicals, so this is a major concern. I think the answer depends very much on the individual involved. Some people are not bothered by the transfer process, but I have to wear gloves. I discard all surfaces with chemicals immediately and wipe anything that comes into contact with it. I don't think working with Polaroids is a problem or a danger. However, I believe that one should take care not to expose themselves to anything that has potential harm. The effects may be cumulative. I shop at health food places because I am concerned about what goes into my body, so why not be concerned about potential negative effects of a hobby? Again, this is an individual thing.

-Charles

-- charles shahar (charles@jon.cjfny.org), July 25, 1999.


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