What do the ACMI seals on Unison Colour Soft Pastel packaging mean?
All of Unison Colour pastels are tested in a toxicological evaluation by Duke University (ACMI) in North America. They are then graded with either an AP or a CL warning label, these mean:
The AP Seal
The AP (Approved Product) Seal identifies art materials that are safe and that are certified in a toxicological evaluation by board-certified toxicologist (medical expert) to contain no materials in sufficient quantities to be toxic or injurious to humans, including children, or to cause acute or chronic health problems. Such products are certified by ACMI to be labeled in accordance with the chronic hazard labeling standard, ASTM D 4236, and the U. S. Labeling of Hazardous Art Materials Act (LHAMA).
The CL Seal
The CL (Cautionary Labeling) Seal identifies products that are certified to be properly labeled in a program of toxicological evaluation by a board-certified toxicologist (medical expert) for any known health risks and with information on the safe and proper use of these materials. The CL seal is not allowed on any children’s materials. These products are also certified by ACMI to be labeled in accordance with the chronic hazard labeling standard, ASTM D 4236, and the U. S. Labeling of Hazardous Art Materials Act (LHAMA). Products with this seal are not hazardous if used correctly. It is important to read the product label in full before opening a product that has the CL Seal. These products should never be given to children in grade 6 or lower or anyone with a physical or mental handicap who is unable to read and understand safety labeling on packages.
For more information, please go to: www.acmiart.org/materials-safety
Advice on using Soft Pastels
Pastels by nature are a dusty medium and artists know that they need to take responsibility for their health when working with any medium. Those artists who have used pastels for a long time will have their own methods for keeping dust to a minimum.
Here at Unison Colour Ltd we would advise that:
- Keep formation of airborne dusts to a minimum
- Work in a space that is dedicated to your art and not where you would prepare food
- When cleaning your art space, use brooms and wet cloths/mops to collect the dust
- If you can afford to buy one, use an Air filter OR ensure you use pastels in well ventilated area
- When using pastels, do not eat, drink or smoke
- Wash hands thoroughly after handling
- During heavy usage or being up close to your painting, the wearing of a dust mask is recommended
- Protective latex or vinyl gloves are also recommended or you can use a barrier cream as an alternative.
