There is no blanket OSHA requirement for PPE in studios (or labs for that matter). The requirement is based on whether a particular activity presents exposure to a hazard for which personal protective equipment is appropriate. For eye protection, 1910.133 says:
"
The employer shall ensure that each affected
employee uses appropriate eye or face protection when exposed to eye or
face hazards from flying particles, molten metal, liquid chemicals,
acids or caustic liquids, chemical gases or vapors, or potentially
injurious light radiation."
So, the need for eye protection in a given studio depends not on what the studio is set up for, but what activities are actually taking place.
Don
Donald Abramowitz, CIH
Environmental Health & Safety Officer
Bryn Mawr College
Bryn Mawr, PA
Hi everyone:
I was recently bombarded with a question by one of our professors in the Fine Arts department at my college. The question is should the university make safety glasses mandatory for students while working in the studio. This studio is setup for making ceramics and pottery. I need help in this matter.
Does OSHA require this for all studios and labs in the Arts?
Thank you for your assistance.
Richard Denton, CHO