POTASSIUM DICHROMATE Danger?

Terry King ( 101522.2625@compuserve.com)
Sun, 05 January 1997 7:34 AM

Jeff

I read you posting with some concern.

> The chemical recommended
>is Potassium Dichromate. The text mentions that gloves should be worn when
>handling this chemical. I looked up this chemical with Enviro-Net's
Material
>Safety Data Sheet Index and they state that this chemical is an extreme
>carcinogen.
<

If the source you quote did say that it is alarmist, wrong and
irresponsible.

If you were to make a habit of bathing in the stuff there might be some
cause for concern. But in the small quantities you are likely to be dealing
with as a gum printer you run a greater risk of cancer by exposing yourself
to the sun in walking to the car.
Dichromates can cause allergic reactions so it is advisable to wear gloves
and if you get any on your skin wash it off straight away. Do not breathe
in the dust as dichromates can erode the mucous membranes. A real problem
if you were working in a ball mill grinding the stuff up.

Treat all chemicals with respect but remember that you probably have far
more dangerous substances in your kitchen cupboard.

I wish you many happy years of gum printing.

Terry King

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