Prepared by Dr. Melissa Gonzales, Ph.D.
University of New Mexico School of Medicine
The information in this guide was obtained from manufacturers Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)
What is in this guide and how can I use it?
The information in this guide comes from Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for specific materials and products used by jewelers and stone carvers. In this guide, the MSDS information on “health information” and “ways to protect yourself” has been summarized.
Use this data to make decisions about a) the best way or ways to protect yourself, and b) substituting less hazardous materials or chemicals in to your work.
Please recognize that the protective equipment you choose to use while you work (e.g. gloves or respirators) should be made to protect you from the specific hazard you are handling. That is, a single type of respirator or glove will not protect you from all the chemicals and materials you use in your work.
What are Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)?
MSDSs are a widely used system for information on chemicals, chemical compounds, and chemical mixtures. MSDS information may include instructions for the safe use and potential hazards associated with a particular material or product. These data sheets can be found anywhere where chemicals are being used.
In the U.S., the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires that MSDS be available to employees for potentially harmful substances handled in the workplace under the Hazard Communication regulation. The MSDS is also required to be made available to local fire departments and local and state emergency planning officials under Section 311 of the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act.
| Following are the different types of materials used in the production of jewelry. Click on the links below to view the health information for each category as well as ways to protect yourself. | |||
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Collection and distribution of this information was funded in part by the New Mexico Center for Advancement of Research, Engagement, & Science on Health (P20 MD004811-02S1) and the UNM-LRRI New Mexico Center for Environmental Health Sciences (P30 ES12072-01) Pilot Project Program.
