Safety Requirements

Common Metalsmithing Safety Requirements

General Safety

  • Always follow instructor’s or studio staff’s directions.
  • Never work alone if using torches, kilns, or large equipment.
  • Know where fire extinguishers, first aid kits, and eye wash stations are located.
  • Report any injury, broken tool, or unsafe condition immediately.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

  • Closed-toe shoes are mandatory — no sandals or open footwear.
  • Wear natural fiber clothing (like cotton) when using torches — no synthetics.
  • Safety glasses must be worn when sawing, grinding, using the flex shaft, or near others working with tools.
  • Use dust masks or respirators when working with fine powders, patinas, or polishing compounds.

Tool & Torch Safety

  • Use tools only for their intended purpose.
  • Check that the tools and torches are in good condition before use.
  • Never leave a lit torch unattended.
  • Turn off gas/oxygen tanks and clean up your station after use.
  • Do not use any equipment unless you’ve been trained or given permission.

Chemical & Material Safety

  • Always wear gloves and work in a ventilated area when using chemicals (pickle, patinas, etc.).
  • Label all containers clearly.
  • Dispose of chemicals according to studio policy — never pour down the sink unless instructed.
  • Wash your hands after handling metals or chemicals and before eating or touching your face.

Studio Etiquette

  • Keep your workstation tidy and wipe down surfaces after use.
  • Be mindful of space and respectful of others’ tools and materials.
  • Ask before borrowing any tool that isn’t yours or marked as studio-owned.
  • Clean shared tools and benches after use.

Respect & Inclusion

  • Everyone is entitled to feel safe, welcome, and respected in our studio. Disparaging comments, bullying, harassment, or discriminatory behavior of any kind will not be tolerated.
  • Salt City Smithery is a space where makers of all backgrounds, identities, and experience levels are valued. We expect all students and instructors to help uphold a positive, inclusive community.
  • If you experience or witness behavior that makes you or someone else feel unsafe or uncomfortable, please report it to a staff member immediately.

Waiver & Safety Agreement

Because we work with torches, tools, chemicals, and heavy equipment, all students and studio users are required to sign a liability waiver before participating in any classes, workshops, or Open Studio sessions.

The waiver ensures that you understand the risks involved and agree to follow safety guidelines while using the studio. It’s part of our commitment to keeping Salt City Smithery a safe, respectful, and supportive space for everyone.

You need to complete the waiver only once and can access the online form here.