Townhouse Ceramics Studio & Health & Safety Policy

(Updated Oct 2025)

Townhouse Ceramics Studio & Gallery is a shared creative workspace used by members, freelance tutors, and visiting students. While we do not employ staff, we are committed to providing a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for everyone using the studio. We recognise our legal duties under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 to protect all persons who may be affected by our activities — including freelancers, contractors, members, and visitors — and to maintain a safe and healthy environment for ceramics practice.

Our Responsibilities

- Identify and manage potential risks through regular checks and documented risk assessments.
- Comply with the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002 by assessing and controlling exposure to hazardous materials such as clays, glazes, and cleaning agents.
- Maintain safe systems of work for high-risk activities, including kiln operation, mixing glazes, and handling clay.
- Provide adequate ventilation and dust control throughout the studio.
- Ensure all equipment is maintained and checked regularly for electrical and mechanical safety.
- Keep first aid equipment and emergency contact details accessible at all times.

Key Risk Areas and Controls

• Silica Dust

• Dry sweeping is strictly prohibited. Use wet cleaning methods (mopping or damp wiping) for all surfaces.

• Use ceramic-grade dust masks (FFP2/FFP3) for any processes that generate fine dust, such as reclaiming dry clay or sanding bisque ware.

• Maintain good ventilation and extraction in working areas.

• Toxic and Hazardous Materials

• Glazes and raw materials must be clearly labelled and stored safely.

• Non-food-safe glazes are clearly marked and must not be used on functional ware.

• Tutors and members must follow all safety instructions for handling, mixing, and disposing of glazes and chemicals.

• Kilns

• Only authorised and trained individuals may operate or load kilns.

• Kiln areas must be kept clear of flammable materials at all times.

• Adequate ventilation is maintained to remove fumes during firing.

• Warning signs are displayed when kilns are operating.

• Electrical and Mechanical Equipment

• Pottery wheels and other electrical equipment are maintained and checked for safety.

• Users must tie back long hair and avoid loose clothing or jewellery near moving parts.

• Report faults immediately and do not attempt repairs yourself.

• General Studio Safety

• Keep walkways clear and floors dry to prevent slips and trips.

• Use tools safely and store sharp implements appropriately.

• Wear suitable clothing and closed-toe footwear.

• Do not eat or drink in clay or glaze areas.

• Dispose of clay and glaze waste properly; do not rinse large quantities into sinks. Clay traps are fitted to protect drains.

Freelancers, Members, and Visitors

- Everyone using the studio must follow these safety measures and report hazards, damage, or accidents immediately.
- Tutors must ensure that participants in their sessions are supervised and briefed on relevant safety information.
- Freelance tutors delivering classes or workshops at Townhouse are also required to hold their own professional or public liability insurance for their individual teaching practice. This ensures appropriate cover for any professional services provided independently of the studio’s overall operations.

Emergencies

A first aid kit is located in the ground-floor studio area. Emergency exits are clearly marked throughout the building. In the event of fire or a serious incident, follow staff instructions and evacuate immediately via the nearest exit on to Yew Tree Place.

Townhouse Ceramics maintains public liability insurance covering the premises, members, visitors, and activities taking place under the studio’s supervision.