This a repost from Notes From The Studio from February 2021. The reason for the repost I’ve recently been contacted with more information and  helpful resources about air filtration and the studio artist.  So instead of just doing that post I’ve decided to start with the original post and then do the updated version in the next post for an easier transition. 

Recently I read an article where lung cancer in non-smokers is increasing in the United States and people aren’t being tested for it as it’s generally not considered a risk.  As potters/ceramicists we may have an increased danger from free silica in our studios. 

We use a Molekular air purifier in our house.  We love it but it may not be heavy duty enough for the rigors of a studio.  (I’ll put the links below)

Bailey Pottery Ceramic  Supplies and Pottery Equipment sell air filtration systems.  (I’m sure other pottery equipment stores do as well I just haven’t researched them) 

Matthew Kelly Pottery uses Environklenz in his studio and speaks of it in a video.

An inexpensive temporary solution comes from Ask This Old House where they use a box fan and air filters for a solution in work shops.  

Keith Brown Maker of Things has several videos on his You tube Channel  Rag ‘N’Bone Brown  for dust extraction.  It’s a great DIY woodworking etc… channel.

Bailey Ceramic Supplies and Pottery Equipment  baileypottery.com

https://www.baileypottery.com/store-dept-pottery-ceramic-studio-equipment/store-studio-safety/store-studio-safety-air-cleaners.html

Matthew Kelly Pottery https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p2Y69jtuXm4

environklenz.com

Keith Brown Maker of Things “Rag”N”Bone Brown”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qCu4kTyRWdM

Ask This Old House Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aw7fUMhNov8

Please do your own  research, use the links below and find the solution best for your shop.  See You in the Next Blog