Artists can learn about safer chemicals, storage and disposal at a free Hidden Hazards in the Arts workshop sponsored by the Local Hazardous Waste Management Program in King County and Northwest Driftwood Artists.

The workshop is from 9:30 a.m. to noon on Jan. 18 at the Houghton Fire Station in Kirkland. Participants will learn helpful tips on how they can protect themselves from the many toxic chemicals typically used in a variety of artistic mediums. The Fire Station is located at 6602 108th Ave. NE.

Donna Galstad, a Health and Environmental Investigator with the Art Hazards team, will discuss art techniques, options for less-toxic art supplies and ways to reduce risks from chemicals, as well as other services, such as disposal and recycling.

“Artists are very creative with the materials and techniques that they use. Most don’t realize that they are often employing dangerous chemicals in dangerous ways,” Galstad said.

“We are here to help them take out some of the risks from handling these chemicals, particularly since many artists have home studios and we want to help them protect their health and their families,” she said.

The Art Hazards project team collaborates with artists, art colleges, cooperatives, museums, galleries and suppliers to help artists and art educators.

The group works to decrease arts-related risks by reducing potential exposures to chemical hazards; and to ensure hazardous art materials are properly recycled or disposed, when they are no longer needed.

Anyone interested in hosting a workshop, or suggesting a workshop topic can contact Dave Waddell, Art Chemical Hazards Project Coordinator, at (206) 263-3069 or dave.waddell@kingcounty.gov.

The Local Hazardous Waste Management Program is a partnership of local governments including the City of Seattle, King County, suburban cities, and rural areas in King County, working together to manage hazardous wastes and protect health and the environment. Visit us at www.hazwastehelp.org.