In addition to their film processing duties, photofinishing workers may sort film, maintain records, check quality, and splice broken or separated film. In smaller photographic establishments, they may develop film and prints, and set up lights, cameras, and take pictures. Because film and machinery may be damaged by excesses of temperature, humidity and dust, photographic laboratories attempt to maintain these factors at comfortable levels. The odor of chemical solutions may be objectionable, but ventilation is usually sufficient to clear the room of annoying odors. Chemicals can be corrosive, so care must be taken when they are used.
Aprons are worn to protect clothing.
Since exposed film is light sensitive, much of its processing must be done in complete darkness. Photofinishing workers must rely on their sense of touch and on audible timers in order to process film correctly. The following information is from the California Projections of Employment published by the Labor Market Division. These figures represent the 20 different job classifications in the broad occupational group for Photographic Process Workers which includes Photofinishing Occupations. The following represents the broad occupational group Photographic Processing Machine Operators and Tenders which includes Photofinishing Occupations.