What Are the Dangers of Electric Kilns?

Electric kilns are necessary for firing clay in an art studio, but they do pose significant safety hazards. Knowing the safety hazards ahead of time can help students and art professionals alike to avoid personal injury or damage to buildings and materials. Anyone who operates kilns should be knowledgeable about how they operate and respect the dangers they pose.

Burns

• Electric kilns become exceedingly hot when they are in use and it is easy to sustain serious burns if you are not careful. Never assume that a kiln is cool, even if it appears that it is not in use. Always wear protective gloves that come up to your elbows when touching the kiln. Avoid wearing loose clothing and make sure your hair is tied up if it is long. You should have special tools for opening the kiln and removing items from the kiln without having to use your hands. Even though the gloves will provide you some protection, use the appropriate tools in order to avoid burns.

Fire Hazards

• Because of the kiln's heat, it also poses a significant fire hazard. Never allow anything to touch the kiln, whether it is in use or not. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions regarding how much free space there needs to be around the electric kiln. Never place paper anywhere near a kiln, as it can ignite and cause a building fire. Ask your local fire department to inspect the area where your kiln is in use in order to ensure that you are operating it as safely as possible.

Fumes

• When kilns are firing clay, fumes are emitted and can sometimes be strong. Make sure that the kiln room is very well ventilated. Wear a respirator anytime you are in the room or opening the kiln. Dust particles from clay, along with the fumes, can damage your lungs or cause you to feel ill. If you do not feel well when working in the kiln room, even with the proper protective measures, get outside for some fresh air and consult a professional for advice on how to improve the safety and air circulation in your electric kiln room.