Painting - Use the least toxic hues available. Paint can enter cuts, sores, or abrasions. Acrylic paints contain mercury preservatives. Eye, nose, and throat irritations occur from acrylic paints or mediums, probably due to the presence of small amounts of ammonia or formaldehyde.
Dusts can occur from dried and flaking paints.
Use the least toxic pigments available. Pastels - dust. Use the least toxic pigments available and cover surfaces with damp newspaper to limit airborne dusts. Solvents - Do not use. If solvents must be used use as little as possible, wear gloves and respiration, keep container closed while using, properly dispose of rags, and use adequate ventilation.