Health and Safety FAQ's
The label on my paint indicates that it contains a chemical known to cause cancer. I am concerned.
GOLDEN and other manufacturers entered into an agreement with the State of California that products containing more than 2.5 parts per million cadmium and/or 10 parts per million lead must be labeled. Until recently our Zinc pigment yielded products containing slightly more than the threshold amount of Cadmium. That has changed recently, as we have changed sources and can now certify that the paints are below 2.5 parts per million. The lead was not an issue. Our labeling is in the process of changing now.
Why does Golden put the California Proposition 65 warnings on their products while similar products from other companies do not?
In most cases it is unlikely the pigments are significantly different. So why do companies label differently? In general, it has to deal with weighing the risk of a citizen lawsuit from California against the relative strength of a toxicological exposure assessment and to some extent, philosophy regarding best practice. We need to label these colors for California which is the only jurisdiction where they are relevant. Unfortunately, because of distribution logistics, it is impractical to distribute such labels only in California.
If I paint something with a cadmium containing pigment, is there significant exposure through skin contact?
If you do not inhale the paint particles or ingest the paint, there is no significant risk. Normal contact with the dried paint will not transfer pigment. However, we advise against using the paints for anything but fine art in order to prevent the paint from becoming part of the household. For example, people tend to want to paint toys, functional objects, and even dishware.
I saw a television program where people were body-painted. Can I use GOLDEN paints for body art?
GOLDEN does not recommend the use of its paints for body art or as a cosmetic. Please refer to our publication, About Body Painting, for additional information.
I am traveling overseas via air transport. Will I be able to travel with GOLDEN products in my carry-on?
In general, if you follow the requirements for packaging liquids and gels, you should be able to travel with GOLDEN paints and mediums in your carry-on. We also suggest that you include a copy of our publication Air Transport Statement in the plastic bag with the materials.
I prefer to paint with my hands rather than with a brush. Are there any safety concerns with this method?
While Golden products are generally safe, some artists may have skin irritation with repeated exposure. In this case, the use of protective gloves or creams is recommended.
