Vendor's List

1. Kitchen

Quartz Surface Sinktop

Builders Shop

11 Changi South St 3 #04-01 Builders Centre, 486122, Singapore

p: 65455225

f: 65455665

Sealant : ICI Oil Based Sealent

My advice is to get a good sealent, get the ICI Oil Based Seaeant. Its very smooth and any contractor will tell you its one of the better ones in the market. Do you know what paint is your contractor using. Don't use cheap paints. After a few years of Malaysian weather, it will show.

Malaysia reno : Need approval from DBKL

normally the DBKL application is done by the contractor..I am renovating my house, ask many contractors, cannot do DBKL, so far only one can do, and he will start my reno and application soon, will see if how true is his claim...

Sealant

Yes, it is really of utmost importance that sealant is applied for new plaster ceilings and newly plastered - constructed walls.

The sealant acts as a hardener for the plaster.

Check to confirm that he did not include the sealant in the price first quoted. To be certain, check with another painter. Also, be certain it is the sealant that they are using and not a "bluff".

How to tell the difference? - it has a stronger smell than normal paint. - check to see that they have the sealant paint. - it has to be newly bought.

Plaster of Paris : MSDS

Chemical data sheet for:

PLASTER OF PARIS

Add to MyChemicals Print Report

Section 1 - Chemical Identifiers	Section 4 - Physical Properties
Section 2 - Hazards	Section 5 - Regulatory Information
Section 3 - Response Recommendations	Section 6 - Alternate Chemical Names

Section 1 - Chemical Identifiers

Back to top | What is this information?

CAS Number - Chemical Abstract Service registry number. Unique identification number assigned to this chemical by the American Chemical Society.

UN/NA Number - The United Nations-North America number (also called UN number or DOT number). Four-digit number identifying an individual chemical or group of chemicals with similar characteristics. Required on shipping papers; often shown on placards or labels. This numbering system was developed by the U.S. Department of Transportation, and then became the UN standard system for classifying hazardous materials.

STCC Number - Standard Transportation Commodity Code. Sounds like "Stick number." Seven-digit chemical identification code used by the Association of American Railroads. A STCC number beginning with "49" indicates a hazardous material.

CHRIS Code - Three-letter code used by the U.S. Coast Guard to identify individual chemicals included in its CHRIS (Chemical Hazards Response Information System) manual.

NFPA 704 - Diamond-shaped label containing codes indicating the level of the chemical's toxic, flammability, and reactivity hazard, along with special hazards such as water- and air-reactivity. See a guide to the "NFPA diamond."

DOT Hazard Label - Required DOT hazard warning label for the chemical (e.g., "Flammable Liquid," "Corrosive"). This label must be displayed on shipped packages, railroad tank cars, and tank trucks according to specifications described in 49 CFR 172.

General Description - Brief description of the general appearance, behavior, and hazardousness of the chemical.

List of data sources.

CAS Number	UN/NA Number	STCC Number	CHRIS Code
26499-65-0	none	none	none

NFPA 704:

NO CODES

DOT Hazard Label:

data unavailable

General Description

White or yellowish, finely divided, odorless powder consisting mostly or entirely of calcium sulfate hemihydrate, CaSO4·1/2H2O. Forms a paste when it is mixed with water that soon hardens into a solid. Used in making casts, molds, and sculpture. Generally non-toxic. (NOAA Reactivity 2007)

Section 2 - Hazards

Back to top | What is this information?

Reactivity Alerts - Special alerts for chemicals that are especially reactive. See a table of reactivity alerts and their definitions.

Air & Water Reactions - Special alerts for chemicals that react with air and/or water or moisture.

Fire Hazard - Description of the chemical's flammability, byproducts that may evolve if the chemical is burned, and risk of explosion.

Health Hazard - Description of the health hazards of the chemical, such as toxicity, flammability, and corrosivity.

Reactivity Profile - Description of the potential reactivity between the chemical and other chemicals, as well as its reactivity with air and water, and any other intrinsic reactive hazards (e.g., polymerizability, peroxidizability).

Reactive Groups - The reactive group, or groups, to which the chemical was assigned, based on its known chemistry. Reactive groups are categories of chemicals that react in similar ways because they are similar in their chemical structure. Read more about reactive groups.

Special WMD note - For chemicals that historically have been used as weapons of mass destruction (WMDs) or that could be used as WMDs, a special note describes the physical clues that can help you to assess whether an attack has taken place.

List of data sources.

Reactivity Alerts

none

Air & Water Reactions

No rapid reaction with air No rapid reaction with water

Fire Hazard

No information available.

Health Hazard

Exposure Routes: inhalation, ingestion, skin and/or eye contact

Symptoms: Irritation eyes, skin, mucous membrane, respiratory system; cough

Target Organs: Eyes, skin, respiratory system (NIOSH, 2003)

Reactivity Profile

PLASTER OF PARIS is non-flammable and non-combustible. Has generally low chemical reactivity but can act as an oxidizing agent under extreme conditions. Decomposes at high temperature to generate toxic oxides of sulfur. Reacts exothermically but slowly with moisture in the air or water to form gypsum CaSO4.2H2O. (NOAA REACTIVITY, 2007)

Belongs to reactive group(s)

• Inorganic Compounds/Neither Reducing nor Oxidizing

Section 3 - Response Recommendations

Back to top | What is this information?

Fire Fighting - Response recommendations for fire incidents in which the chemical is involved.

Non-Fire Response - Response recommendations for incidents not involving fire, in which the chemical is involved.

Protective Clothing - General recommendations.

First Aid - Recommended first aid treatment for people exposed to the chemical.

List of data sources.

Fire Fighting

No information available.

Non-Fire Response

No information available.

Protective Clothing

Skin: No recommendation is made specifying the need for personal protective equipment for the body.

Eyes: No recommendation is made specifying the need for eye protection.

Wash skin: No recommendation is made specifying the need for washing the substance from the skin (either immediately or at the end of the work shift).

Remove: No recommendation is made specifying the need for removing clothing that becomes wet or contaminated.

Change: No recommendation is made specifying the need for the worker to change clothing after the work shift. (NIOSH, 2003)

First Aid

Eye: If this chemical contacts the eyes, immediately wash the eyes with large amounts of water, occasionally lifting the lower and upper lids. Get medical attention immediately. Contact lenses should not be worn when working with this chemical.

Breathing: If a person breathes large amounts of this chemical, move the exposed person to fresh air at once. If breathing has stopped, perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. Keep the affected person warm and at rest. Get medical attention as soon as possible.

Swallow: If this chemical has been swallowed, get medical attention immediately. (NIOSH, 2003)

Plaster : MSDS

MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET
USG White Moulding Plaster
MSDS # 52-100-016
Page 1 of 8
United States Gypsum Company
DISTRIBUTED BY FREEMAN MFG & SUPPLY CO. 800-321-8511
A Subsidiary of USG Corporation
Product Safety: 1 (800) 507-8899
Version Date: October 8, 2003
Version: 4
SECTION 1
CHEMICAL PRODUCT AND IDENTIFICATION
PRODUCT(S): USG White Moulding Plaster
CHEMICAL FAMILY: Calcium Sulfate Hemihydrate (CaSO4•½H2O)
SECTION 2
COMPOSITION, INFORMATION ON INGREDIENTS
MATERIAL WT% TLV (mg/m3) PEL( mg/m3) CAS NUMBER
Plaster of Paris (CaSO4•½H2O) 100 10 15(T)/5(R) 26499-65-0
Crystalline Silica <1 0.05(R) 0.1(R) 14808-60-7
(T) – Total (R) – Respirable (NE) – Not Established
Respirable crystalline silica: IARC: Group 1 carcinogen, NTP: Known human carcinogen. The weight percent of
crystalline silica given represents total quartz and not the respirable fraction. Testing of dust from USG plaster of paris
has not detected respirable crystalline silica.
Food and Drug Administration [CFR Title 21, v.3, sec 184.1230] – Calcium Sulfate is Generally
Recognized as Safe (GRAS).
All ingredients of this product are included in the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Toxic Substances Control
Act Chemical Substance Inventory. All components of this product are included in the Canadian Domestic
Substances List (DSL)
SECTION 3
HAZARD IDENTIFICATION
INFORMATION FOR HANDLING AND IDENTIFICATION OF CHEMICAL HAZARDS
0 = Minimal Hazard
NFPA Ratings: HIMS Ratings: 1 = Slight Hazard
Health: 0 Health: *0 2 = Moderate Hazard
Fire: 0 Fire: 0 3 = Serious Hazard
Reactivity: 0 Reactivity: 1 4 = Severe Hazard
Personal Protection: Use eye and skin protection. Use NIOSH/MSHA-approved respiratory protection when
necessary.
*Respirable crystalline silica can cause lung disease and/or cancer. E – Safety glasses, gloves and dust respirator
EMERGENCY OVERVIEW
This product is not expected to produce any unusual hazards during normal use. Exposure to high dust levels may
irritate the skin, eyes, nose, throat, or upper respiratory tract. When mixed with water, this material hardens and
becomes very hot – sometimes quickly. DO NOT attempt to make a cost enclosing any part of the body using this
material.
HEALTH
FLAMMABILITY
PHYSICAL HAZARD
PERSONAL PROTECTION E
* 0
0
1
0
0 0
MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET
USG White Moulding Plaster
MSDS # 52-100-016
Page 2 of 8
SECTION 3 HAZARD IDENTIFICATION (continued)
POTENTIAL HEALTH EFFECTS
ACUTE:
Eyes: Direct contact can cause mechanical irritation of eyes. If burning, redness, itching, pain or other symptoms
persist or develop, consult physician.
Skin: When mixed with water, this material hardens and becomes very hot – sometimes quickly. DO NOT attempt to
make a cost enclosing any part of the body using this material. Failure to follow these instructions can cause severe
burns that may require surgical removal of affected tissue or amputation of limb. Direct, prolonged or repeated contact
with the skin may cause irritation. Rinse with water until skin is free of material to avoid irritation, then wash skin
thoroughly with mild soap and water. Repeated exposure may dry skin.
Inhalation: Dust exposures generated during the handling of the product may irritate eyes, skin, nose, throat, and
upper respiratory tract. Persons subjected to large amounts of this dust will be forced to leave area because of
nuisance conditions such as coughing, sneezing and nasal irritation. Labored breathing may occur after excessive
inhalation. If respiratory symptoms persist, consult physician.
Ingestion: Unlikely to occur, but if ingested may cause gastric disturbances if swallowed. Plaster of paris is non-toxic,
however, ingestion of a sufficient quantity could lead to mechanical obstruction of the gut, especially the pyloric region.
See First Aid Measures - Ingestion (Section 4).
CHRONIC:
Inhalation: Testing of dust from USG plaster of paris has not detected respirable crystalline silica. Exposures to
respirable crystalline silica are not expected during the normal use of this product; however, actual levels must be
determined by workplace hygiene testing. The weight percent of respirable crystalline silica has not been measured in
this product.
Prolonged and repeated exposure to airborne free respirable crystalline silica can result in lung disease (i.e., silicosis)
and/or lung cancer. The development of silicosis may increase the risks of additional health effects. The risk of
developing silicosis is dependent upon the exposure intensity and duration.
Skin: Repeated contact may dry the skin, causing cracking or dermatitis. Sensitive individuals may develop an allergic
dermatitis.
Eyes: No known effects.
Ingestion: No known effects.
TARGET ORGANS: Eyes, skin and respiratory system.
PRIMARY ROUTES OF ENTRY: Inhalation, eyes and skin contact.
SECTION 4
FIRST AID MEASURES
FIRST AID PROCEDURES:
Eyes: Flush thoroughly with water for 15 minutes. If irritation persists, consult physician.
Skin: Wash with mild soap and water. A commercially available hand lotion may be used to treat dry skin areas. If
skin has become cracked, take appropriate action to prevent infection and promote healing. If irritation persists,
consult physician.
Inhalation: Remove to fresh air. Leave the area of dust exposure and remain away until coughing and other
symptoms subside. Other measures are usually not necessary, however if conditions warrant, contact physician.
Ingestion: This product is not intended to be ingested or eaten. If gastric disturbance occurs, call physician. This
product contains gypsum plaster. Plaster of paris hardens and, if ingested, may result in obstruction of the gut,
especially the pyloric region. Drinking gelatin solutions or large volumes of water may delay setting.
MEDICAL CONDITIONS WHICH MAY BE AGGRAVATED: Pre-existing upper respiratory and lung diseases such
as, but not limited to, bronchitis, emphysema and asthma. Pre-existing skin diseases such as, but not limited to,
rashes and dermatitis.
Notes to Physician: Treatment should be directed at the control of symptoms and the clinical condition.
MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET
USG White Moulding Plaster
MSDS # 52-100-016
Page 3 of 8
SECTION 5
FIRE FIGHTING MEASURES
General Fire Hazards: Not expected to burn.
Extinguishing Media: Water or use extinguishing media appropriate for surrounding fire.
Special Fire Fighting Procedures: Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (See section 8).
Unusual Fire and Explosion
Hazards:
None
Hazardous Combustion Products: Above 1450º C - decomposes to calcium oxide (CaO) and sulfur dioxide (SO2).
Flash Point: None Known Auto Ignition: Not Applicable
Method Used: Not Applicable
Upper Flammable Limit (UFL): Not Applicable
Flammability Classification: Not Applicable, may act as
a fire retardant
Lower Flammable Limit (LFL): Not Applicable Rate of Burning: Not Applicable
SECTION 6
ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES
CONTAINMENT:
No special precautions. Wear appropriate personal protection (See Section 8).
CLEAN-UP:
Use normal clean up procedures. If dry, shovel or sweep up material from spillage and place collected material into a
container for recovery or waste disposal. Avoid dust generation. Avoid inhalation of dust and contact with eyes and
skin. Wear appropriate protective equipment. Maintain proper ventilation. If vacuum is used to collect dust, use an
industrial vacuum cleaner with a high efficiency air filter. If sweeping is necessary, use dust suppressant. Do not use
compressed air for clean up. These procedures will help minimize potential exposures. If washed down, may plug
drains. If already mixed with water, scrape up and place in container.
DISPOSAL:
Follow all local, state, provincial and federal regulations. Never discharge large releases directly into sewers or
surface waters. Slurry may plug drains. Trace amounts of residue can be flushed to a drain, using plenty of water.
SECTION 7
HANDLING AND STORAGE
HANDLING:
Avoid dust contact with eyes. Wear the appropriate eye protection against dust (See Section 8).
Avoid breathing dust. Wear the appropriate respiratory protection against dust in poorly ventilated areas and if TLV is
exceeded (see Sections 2 and 8).
Minimize dust generation and accumulation. Use good safety and industrial hygiene practices.
STORAGE:
Store in a cool, dry, ventilated area away from sources of heat, moisture and incompatibilities (see Section 10).
Dew point conditions or other conditions causing presence of liquid will harden this material during storage.
Protect product bags or containers from physical damage and weather.
Keep bags or other containers tightly closed to prevent moisture contact.
MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET
USG White Moulding Plaster
MSDS # 52-100-016
Page 4 of 8
SECTION 8
EXPOSURE CONTROLS/PERSONAL PROTECTION
ENGINEERING CONTROLS:
Provide ventilation sufficient to control airborne dust levels especially respirable crystalline silica.
If user operations generate airborne dust, use ventilation to keep dust concentrations below permissible exposure
limits (See Section 2).
Where general ventilation is inadequate, use process enclosures, local exhaust ventilation, or other engineering
controls to control dust levels below permissible exposure limits (see Section 2). If engineering controls are not
possible, wear a properly fitted NIOSH/MSHA-approved particulate respirator.
RESPIRATORY PROTECTION:
Wear a NIOSH/MSHA-approved respirator equipped with particulate cartridges when dusty in poorly ventilated areas,
and if TLV is exceeded. A respiratory program that meets OSHA's 29 CFR 1910.134 and ANSI Z88.2 requirements
must be followed whenever workplace conditions warrant a respirator's use.
OTHER PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT:
Eye/Face: Wear eye protection (safety glasses or goggles) to avoid possible eye irritation.
Skin: Wear gloves and protective clothing to prevent repeated or prolonged skin contact. Barrier creams or skin lotion
may be applied to face, neck, wrist and hands when skin is exposed to help prevent drying of skin.
General: Selection of Personal Protective Equipment will depend on environmental working conditions and
operations.
SECTION 9
PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES
Appearance White to off white Viscosity Not Applicable
Physical State Solid (powder) Solubility (H2O) 0.67-0.88 g/100 g solution
Odor Low to no odor Boiling Point Not Applicable
pH @ 25 º C ~7 Melting Point Not Applicable
Particle Size Varies Softening Point Not Applicable
Molecular Weight ~145 g/mole Freezing Point Not Applicable
Bulk Density ~ 55-70 lb/ft3 Vapor Density (Air = 1) Not Applicable
Specific Gravity (H20 = 1) 2.5 Vapor Pressure (mm Hg) Not Applicable
Percent Volatile Zero Evaporation Rate (BuAc = 1) Not Applicable
VOC Content Zero
SECTION 10
CHEMICAL STABILITY AND REACTIVITY
STABILITY: Stable in dry environments. Dew point conditions or other conditions causing
presence of liquid will harden this material.
CONDITIONS TO AVOID: Contact with acids, water, high humidity, and incompatibles.
INCOMPATIBILITY: Acids. Exposure to water and acids must be supervised because the reactions
are vigorous and produce large amounts of heat.
HAZARDOUS POLYMERIZATION: Will not occur.
HAZARDOUS DECOMPOSITION: Above 1450º C - calcium oxide (CaO) and sulfur dioxide SO2

Health Hazards : Plaster

 TRADITIONAL SCULPTURE HAZARDS

By Michael McCann, Ph.D., C.I.H., and Angela Babin, M.S.





INTRODUCTION



  Many artists work with traditional sculptural materials

including plaster, stone, lapidary, clay, wax, and modeling

materials.  This data sheet will provide hazards and safety

information for certain traditional processes.  Our data

sheets "Ceramics", "Metal Working and Jewelry Hazards",

"Plastics" and "Woodworking." have information about

other sculptural materials.





PLASTER



  Plaster can be carved, modeled, and casted.  Varieties of

plaster include: Plaster of Paris, casting plaster, white art

plaster, molding plaster, and Hydrocal.  These are all

varieties of calcined gypsum, composed of calcium sulfate.

  Plaster is mixed by sifting the powder into water.

Sometimes salt, potassium sulfate, or potassium alum is

added to speed setting, or borax, diluted acetic acid, or

burnt lime is added to retard setting of the plaster.  Silica

sand, vermiculite, sand, and coarse stone can be added to

the plaster for textural effects.  Wet or dry plaster is

carved and modeled with special plaster carving chisels,

knives, rasps, and scrapers and other tools.



Hazards

1. Plaster dust (calcium sulfate) is slightly irritating to the

eyes and respiratory system.  In situations where there is

heavy inhalation of the dust, more severe respiratory

problems can result.

2. Potassium sulfate and potassium alum are slightly toxic

by ingestion; potassium alum is slightly toxic by skin

contact, and can cause mild irritation or allergies in some

people.

3. Borax is moderately toxic by ingestion, by inhalation,

and by absorption through burns or other skin injuries.  It

is also slightly toxic by skin contact, causing alkali burns.

4. Concentrated acetic acid is highly corrosive by

ingestion, inhalation, and skin contact.

5. Burnt lime (calcium oxide) is moderately corrosive by

skin contact (especially if the skin is wet), and highly toxic

by inhalation or ingestion.

6. Many of the additives used may be hazardous.  Silica

and vermiculite dust are highly toxic by inhalation, and

may cause silicosis.  Small amounts are not a major

hazard.

7. Careless use and storage of sharp tools can cause

accidents.  Chipping set plaster can result in eye injuries

from flying chips.



Precautions

1. For mixing large amounts of plaster at one time, wear

a NIOSH-approved dust mask.  Vacuum or mop up plaster

dust carefully; do not sweep.

2. Wear gloves and goggles when mixing acetic acid and

burnt lime.  For large amounts of burnt lime, wear an

approved toxic dust mask.

3. When adding hazardous materials to plaster, wear an

approved toxic dust mask and clean up dust carefully by

wet mopping or vacuuming.

4. Always carve or cut in a direction away from you, and

keep hands behind the tool.  If the tool falls, don't try to

catch it.

5. Wear ANSI-approved safety goggles when chipping

plaster.

6. Store plaster in sealed containers or plastic sealed bags

rather than paper bags which can rip open.





PLASTER MOLDS

  Mold releases used with plaster include vaseline, tincture

of green soap, auto paste wax-benzine, silicone-grease-

benzine, and mineral oil-petroleum jelly.  In waste

molding, the plaster mold is chipped away.



Hazards

1. Benzine used with many mold releases is moderately

toxic by skin contact and inhalation, and is highly toxic by

ingestion.  It is also flammable.

2. Making plaster casts of hands, legs, and other body

parts can be very hazardous due to the heat released during

the setting process.  Many children and adults have been

severely burned doing this.



Precautions

1. Wear gloves and goggles when pouring benzine.  Store

in safety containers and do not use near open flames or

cigarettes.

2. Do not use plaster for body part casts.  Instead, use a

plaster-impregnated bandage (such as Johnson and

Johnson's Pariscraft), along with vaseline or similar mold

release as protection.





PLASTER FINISHING

    Plaster can be finished in many ways.  It can be

painted with paint or powdered pigments, or dyes can be

added directly to the plaster mix.  Patinas are made by

sealing the plaster with shellac or acrylic sprays.  They can

also be made with a 50/50 mixture of water and white

glue, with water-based glue mixed with a 50/50 mixture of

lacquer and alcohol, or with bronzing liquids.





Hazards

1. Powdered pigments and dyes are often hazardous by

inhalation or ingestion, and in some cases by skin contact.

See our data sheet "Art Painting and Drawing" and

"Dyeing Safely" for more information on the pigments used

to finish plaster.

2. Lacquers contain solvents that are highly toxic by

inhalation and moderately toxic by skin contact.  Alcohol

and shellac are slightly toxic unless the shellac contains

moderately toxic methyl alcohol.  These solvents are also

flammable.



Precautions

1. Wear a NIOSH-approved dust mask when using

powdered pigments or dyes.  Brush or dip dyes or paints

rather than spraying.

2. When using solvents, have good general ventilation and

wear gloves and goggles.  Store solvents safely, and keep

them away from open flames and lit cigarettes; dispose of

solvent-soaked rags in approved waste disposal cans which

are emptied each day.





STONES AND LAPIDARY



  Stone carving involves chipping, scraping, fracturing,

flaking, crushing, and pulverizing with a wide variety of

tools.  Soft stones can be worked with manual tools

whereas hard stones require crushing and pulverizing with

electric and pneumatic tools.  Crushed stone can also be

used in casting procedures.





SOFT STONES

  Soft stones include soapstone (steatite), serpentine,

sandstone, African wonderstone, greenstone, sandstone,

limestone, alabaster, and several others.





HARD STONES

  Hard stones include granite and marble.  Electric tools

include saws, drills, grinders, and sanders, and pneumatic

tools include rotohammers, drills, and other tools powered

by compressed air.





CASTING STONES

  Stone casts can be made using Portland cement, sand,

and crushed stone.  Marble dust is often used with this

technique.  Cast concrete sculptures can also be made

using sand and Portland cement.   The commonest mold is

plaster with stearic acid/benzine as the mold release.

Portland cement contains calcium, aluminum, iron and

magnesium oxides, and about 5% free silica.  Some

modern cements have acrylic resins in them to give

stronger bonding.  Sometimes, fiberglass is added as a

reinforcement.



Hazards

1. Sandstone, soapstone, and granite are highly toxic by

inhalation because they contain large amounts of free silica.

Limestone, containing small amounts of free silica, is less

hazardous.  See Table 1.

2. Serpentine, soapstone, and greenstone may contain

asbestos, which can cause asbestosis, lung cancer,

mesothelioma, and stomach and intestinal cancers.

3. During chipping and other carving, flying chips and

pieces of rock may cause eye injury.  Grinding and

sanding can release small pieces of stone and dust which

are hazardous to the eyes.

4. Lifting heavy pieces of stone may cause back injuries.

5. Power tools create larger amounts of fine dust than hand

tools.  Pneumatic tools can create large amounts of fine

silica dust.

6. Pneumatic and electric tools and compressors can create

a noise hazard.  Temporary hearing loss can become

permanent with chronic exposure and noise can also

adversely affect the heart, circulation, blood pressure,

intestines, and balance.

7. Vibration from pneumatic equipment can cause

Raynaud's phenomenon, ("white fingers" or "dead fingers")

a circulation disease.  The hazard is greater with exposure

to cold, (e.g. the air blast from pneumatic tools).  This

temporary condition can spread to the whole hand and

cause permanent damage.

8. Electrical tools create the potential hazard of electrical

shock from improperly grounded or faulty wiring.

9. Calcium oxide in Portland cement is highly corrosive to

the eyes and respiratory tract, and is moderately corrosive

to the skin.  Allergic dermatitis can also occur due to

chromium contaminants in the cement.  The silica in the

cement is also highly toxic by inhalation.  Lung problems

from inhalation of Portland cement include emphysema,

bronchitis, and fibrosis.

10. Acrylic resins are skin irritants and sensitizers.  See

our data sheet on plastics for more information.



Precautions

1. Do not use stones which may contain asbestos unless

you are certain that your particular pieces are asbestos

free.  New York soapstones may contain asbestos, whereas

Vermont soapstones are usually asbestos free.  Alabaster is

a substitute.

2. Wear an NIOSH-approved toxic dust respirator when

carving all stones.  Particular care should be taken with

stones that contain free silica.

3.  Techniques to keep down dust levels in the air include

daily vacuuming or wet mopping, and use of a water spray

over your sculpture when you are carving.  Do not dry

sweep.

4. Wear chipping goggles to protect against flying

particles; wear protective shoes to protect against falling

stones.  Wear approved safety goggles when grinding,

sanding, or polishing.  For heavy grinding also wear a

face shield.

5. Change clothes and shower after work so as not to track

the dust home. Wash your clothes regularly.

6. When using carving tools, keep your hands behind the

tools, and carve or cut in a direction away from you.

Don't try to catch falling tools.

7. Use proper lifting techniques (bent knees).

8. Pneumatic and electric carving tools should be equipped

with portable exhaust systems.

9. All electric tools should be properly grounded and in

good repair.  Install ground fault circuit interrupters if

machines are within 6 feet of water that can splash.

10. Isolate the compressor far away and shield with sound-

absorbing materials.  Wear ear protection if necessary.

11. Protect against vibration damage from pneumatic tools

by measures such as having comfortable hand grips,

directing the air blast away from your hands, keeping

hands warm, taking frequent work breaks, and using

preventive medical measures such as massage and

exercises.

12. Tie long hair back, and don't wear ties, jewelry, or

loose clothing which can get caught by machinery.

13. Equip all grinding wheels, sanding machines, and

polishing wheels with local exhaust ventilation, and use wet

sanding and polishing techniques whenever possible to keep

down dust levels.





LAPIDARY

  Lapidary involves cutting and carving semiprecious stones

and has similar risks as hard stone carving.  Stones carved

include garnet, jasper, jade, agate, travertine, opal,

turquoise and many others.



Hazards

1. See stone hazards above.

2. The dust from quartz gemstones such as agate,

amethyst, onyx, and jasper is highly toxic because they are

made of silica.  Other gemstones such as turquoise and

garnet may be contaminated with substantial amounts of

free silica.  Opal is made of amorphous silica, which is

slightly toxic by inhalation.

3. Gem cutting machines can create very high noise levels.



Precautions

1. See stone precautions above.

2. In the absence of adequate local exhaust ventilation,

wear NIOSH-approved toxic dust respirator for sanding,

grinding, or polishing operations that create dust.  Use wet

grinding processes.



FINISHING STONE

  Stones can be finished by grinding, sanding, and

polishing, by either hand or with machines.  Polishing can

use a variety of materials, depending on the hardness of

the stone being polished.  Polishing materials include

carborundum (silicon carbide), corundum (alumina),

diamond dust, pumice, putty powder (tin oxide), rouge

(iron oxide), tripoli (silica), and cerium oxide.



Hazards

1. Grinding and sanding, especially with machines can

create fine dust from the stone which is being worked.

There are also inhalation hazards from grinding wheel dust

(especially sandstone wheels).  Some polishing materials

such as tripoli are highly toxic if inhaled in powder form.



Precautions

1. In the absence of adequate local exhaust ventilation,

wear NIOSH-approved toxic dust respirator for sanding,

grinding, or polishing operations that create dust.





Table 1.



NOT SIGNIFICANT OR SLIGHT HAZARDS,

VERY SMALL AMOUNTS FREE SILICA

alabaster, amber, bone ash, calcite, carborundum, diamond,

dolomite, gypsum, hematite, jade, marble, putty (tin),

travertine, whiting, wollastonite.



MAY CONTAIN LARGE AMOUNTS FREE SILICA

clays, feldspars, garnet, granite, greenstone, quartz (agate,

amethyst, chalcedony, chert, flint, lapis lazuli, lepidolite,

onyx, silica flour) opal, pumice, rouge (if silica-containing,

iron), sandstone, slate, silica-containing African

wonderstone, talc, tripoli, turquoise.



CONTAINING OTHER MODERATE TO EXTREMELY TOXIC INGREDIENTS

asbestos, carbon black (if contaminated with polycyclic

aromatic hydrocarbons), cerium oxide, cerrusite (lead),

coal, corundum (aluminum oxide), cryolite, erionite

(zeolite), fluorspar, lapis lazuli (ingestion may create

hydrogen sulfide), litharge (lead), malachite (copper),

serpentine (may contain asbestos), soapstone (talc), talc

(can have asbestos-type materials), vermiculite (asbestos),

witherite (barium), zirconia (allergen).











MODELING MATERIALS



CLAY

   Modeling materials used in sculpture include traditional

moist clays, non-hardening modeling clays, self-hardening

clays, oven-hardening clays, wax, and papier mache type

products.  See our data sheet "Ceramics" for more

information on clay.





MODELING COMPOUNDS

    Modeling clays of the plasticine type usually contain

China clay in an oil and petrolatum base.  Additives are

often present, including dyes, sulfur dioxide, vegetable oils,

aluminum silicate, preservatives, and turpentine.  These are

modeled and carved with simple tools.

  There are also a variety of polymer clays that are self-

hardening, or oven-hardening (e.g. FIMO, Sculpey), which

are not really clays at all.  These are often based on

polyvinyl chloride.  They are widely used in jewelry and

bead-making, and sometimes are inappropriately used with

children.



Hazards

1. Some of the additives in plasticine clays such as

turpentine and preservatives might cause skin irritation or

allergies, and sulfur dioxide might cause some respiratory

problems in certain asthmatics.  The amounts present are

usually small.

2. In the past, many of these materials contained di-

(ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), a probable human

carcinogen, as a plasticizer.

3. The curing temperatures of different product are not the

same, and in some cases, very close to the temperatures at

which decomposition can occur.



Precautions

1. Use gloves or apply a barrier cream to hands if skin

irritation results from using plasticine modeling clays.

Wash hands with soap and water after contact.

2. Baking any art material in an oven which is also used

for food carries the risk of contaminating food.  Use a

separate oven, that has reliable temperature control and

only bake these products to their particular hardening

temperature.

3. Obtain the get the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)

from the manufacturer or supplier, and make sure the

temperature of decomposition is not reached.

4. Do not use hardening modeling clays that have DEHP

as a plasticizer.  At this time, the longterm hazards of

replacement plasticizers have not been adequately

researched.

5. Use these products in front of a window exhaust fan.





WAX



  Many different types of waxes are used for modeling,

carving, and casting.  These include beeswax, ceresin,

carnauba, tallow, paraffin, and micro-crystalline wax.  In

addition there are the synthetic chlorinated waxes.  Solvents

used to dissolve various waxes include alcohol, acetone,

benzine, turpentine, ether, and carbon tetrachloride.

  Waxes are often softened for carving or modeling by

heating in a double boiler or with a light bulb, by

sculpting with tools warmed over an alcohol lamp, or by

the use of soldering irons, alcohol lamps, and blowpipes.

Wax can be melted for casting in a double boiler.

  Additives used with waxes include rosin, dyes, petroleum

jelly, mineral oil, and many solvents.



Hazards

1. Overheating wax can result in the release of flammable

wax vapors, as well as in the decomposition of the wax to

release acrolein fumes and other decomposition products

which are highly irritating by inhalation.  Explosions have

occurred from heating wax that contained water.

2. Alcohol and acetone are slightly toxic solvents by skin

contact and inhalation; benzine and turpentine are

moderately toxic by skin contact, inhalation, and ingestion.

Carbon tetrachloride is extremely toxic, possibly causing

liver cancer and severe liver damage, even from small

exposures.  Exposure to carbon tetrachloride can be fatal

by skin absorption or inhalation.

3. Chlorinated synthetic waxes are highly toxic by skin

contact and skin absorption, causing a severe form of acne

(chloracne).  Some may be contaminated with

polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), which are highly toxic,

causing chloracne, liver problems, and possibly cancer of

the pancreas and melanoma (a fatal form of skin cancer).



Precautions

1. Do not overheat waxes.  Use a double boiler and a

temperature-controlled hot plate, or a crock pot.  Do not

use an open flame to melt waxes.

2. Use the least hazardous solvent to dissolve your wax.

Do not use carbon tetrachloride under any circumstances.

Store solvents safely, do not smoke or have open flames

near solvents.  Dispose of solvent-soaked rags in an

approved waste disposal container which is emptied daily.

3. Do not use chlorinated synthetic waxes.



This data sheet is adapted from the second edition of Artist

Beware, by Michael McCann, Ph.D., C.I.H., 1992











FOR FURTHER INFORMATION





   Written and telephoned inquiries about hazards in the arts

will be answered by the Art Hazards Information Center of

the Center for Safety in the Arts.  Send a stamped, self-

addressed envelope for a list of our many publications.

Permission to reprint this data sheet may be requested in

writing from CSA.  Write: Center for Safety in the Arts,

5 Beekman Street, Suite 820, New York, NY 10038.

Telephone (212) 227-6220.

   CSA is partially supported with public funds from the

National Endowment for the Arts, the New York State

Council on the Arts, the New York City Department of

Cultural Affairs, and the NYS Department of Labor

Occupational Safety and Health Training and Education

Program.



(c) Center for Safety in the Arts, 1994.









--

Michael McCann

Internet: mmccann@rdz.stjohns.edu

Rubbish Chute

Install Maxden brand rubbish chute as they guarantee against cockroaches climbing in.

Rainshower head

do take note that rain shower it self is not expensive, you can get a rain shower set from S$130 onwards depending on the retail shop and brand you get. normally the cheaper ones are from china or taiwan. those from thailand seems like cannot be found in singapore mkt.

the expensive portion of the shower set is the mixer tap. this mixer tap allows you to select warm or cold water, adjust the water temperature (eg. vy hot to vy cold), and water pressure.

if there is a tap sprout outlet besides connecting to the rainshower, it will cost more as well.

for a complete set of rain shower set with mixer and a tap sprout, generally the prices are as follows:

from china/taiwan
- from S$350 to S$480

from uk/us/germany/europe
- from S$480 onwards

some of the brands for comparison:

- kriz

- damixa

- grohe (us, uk, germany, europe) http://www.grohe.co.uk/

- kohler (us) http://www.us.kohler.com/onlinecatalog/newproducts_detail.jsp?aid=1142518690927&section=2

- new art (china) http://www.shengyate.com/en/about.asp

- genova (taiwan, china) http://genova.com.sg

i wish to state that the above information is just for purely information gather from users and advice given by sellers and users and by no way represent any legal implications to me or whatsoever. it is purely for information purpose only and does not represent my view or manipulations of others' views.


*********

hi am getting this set from a shop along jln besar
it's around $300 for the rainshower head, shower spray and mixer all in one set. quite nice and quite worth it in my opinion
the shop is called chuan heng. they've got other branches but the shop that offered this price is at jln besar near the sungei rd side

Paint

I would suggest the "washable" paint. They will cost a bit more than normal paint but the advantage is that you can scrub dirt marks off. Unlike normal paints, it does not exhibit hair-line cracks as it seems to be able to stretch with the walls when it expands on hot days.

one thing about paint is try not to use glossy paint... meaning those that look "shiny" on the surface as if u wash them, the gloss will be gone and so u will have one area glossy and one without... n also using "shiny" paint, your wall must be VERY level, meaning no up and down as they will be the same as one area shiny n one not cos of the reflection...

Definitely the ICI wash and waer or the Nippon Medifresh (both are washable) are the best choice for kitchen and toilet walls / ceilings.

ICI actually has a latest series of paint call the 3-in-1 which is much better than the wash n wear and their wash n wear series is much better than their pendalite which is the series of paint which most contractors used when u ask them to do painting.... n accordingly, 3-in-1 is more expensive than the rest....

just be careful about the finish u want for your flat, that's all cos though shiny surface is beautiful, it is hard to maintain it so.

depending on d paint that u choose from d catalogue.. note that some of paints comes in gloss/matt paint. in terms of quality, ici wash n wear is d best and easier to wipe off any stain using a wet cloth.

Overlaying Tiles

Yes, overlaying will be cheaper as you need not pay for the hacking of the existing tiles. But the problem with overlaying is that cement does not stick well on a smooth surface even with chemical adhesive added so theres a possibility of tiles popping out prematurely. You've to decide between saving a thousand plus dollars & risk having tiles popping out here & there in a year or two or paying a fraction more of the overall amount & having the peace of mind.



can reduce pop-up by using a good adhesive material..... ask the ID what material they use... and also ensure they roughen the existing tile surface before they lay the new one...

The new tile size shouldn't bigger than 300x300

Another problem is if the existing tile workmanship is not good, alot of hollowness then not advisable to relay....

Mould on Silicon Sealant : Maintenence

Guys, i am only into my 2nd year flat at Sengkang and there are mould invading my bathrooms and kitchen. They are everywhere on silicon .. at the bathroom etc.. HOW to KILL and remove them fOREVER??? PLEASE HELP

**********

any brand will do as long as it contents bleach.... you can easily find it at NTUC or other major supermarket....

agree with yoongf that this solution only effective to remove mould on the surface. If it is alreday deep inside the sealant then you need to replace the sealant....

for those who is going to do shower screen, remind your id/contractor to use anti-fungus sealant...

************

i also face the same problems some time back. I sprayed the duck mould on the shower screen and let it seep into the gaps between the screen and the seal. To me, the logic is that if the mould can grow on the inside, water must have seeped in. It had worked for me. Nowadays, i check on the seal. the minute i see brownish/ blackish spots, i apply the duck mould. so far, no more headaches with the moulds. But, i notice that the greyish tiles in contact with the duck mould had been "whitened"

Toilet Bowl

Anyone has experience with their Maclaire Toilet Bowls? We've moved in barely a week and the flush system system seems to be problematic already. Thw waste doesn't seem to flush well and keeps coming back. Please advice.

Mine are Maclaire and I have been putting up with its weak flushing system too....grown to get used to it