Health & safety guidelines
Things to know (Chemistry)
The photochemical process is generally much safer than it was in the past, but caution is necessary to avoid a variety of potential issues.
Certain chemicals used can be harmless upon a single contact, but can accumulate to create dangerous or irritating conditions. Thus, gloves are required and handwashing and lab habits will be central to our instruction. Tongs will be supplied for use in developer trays, goggles are encouraged, and aprons are incredibly useful to help avoid staining clothes.
Open tray developing of anything other than black and white materials will not be allowed, at least as we open. We will use the safest materials and will work on expanding beyond that.
Material Satefy Data Sheets will be supplied for every chemical and material used, and if they are not immediately apparent, let the manager know and they will be returned to their proper locations in each lab area.
We will be using low-fume chemistry and closed containers whenever possible, but we will take care to make sure to encourage proper airflow and habits to reduce inhalation risks.
If you see an issue, we MUST take it seriously and assure its safety or correct it.d
Things to know (Personal)
Piney Woods Darkroom has a zero-tolerance stance on harassment, abuse, discrimination and similar issues. We must immediately address complaints of inappropriate behavior and we will always err on the side of safety. Cases of hate speech (racism, transphobia, homophobia) will NOT be tolerated. Safe existence and validation are not on the table to be threatened. We will likely see a mix of political/social opinions, but we urge civility while using our facilities.
It is in our bylaws that violations of these terms must be addressed immediately.