Ceramic pottery kilns are quite safe when you follow some basic safety precautions. However, following these precautions is essential since kilns do involve extremely high temperatures, and firing kilns releases volatile gases into the air. Here are some tips for using your kiln safely.
Even when kilns are adequately insulated, their outer surfaces can become sufficiently hot to cause serious burns if touched or brushed against with bare skin. Therefore kiln gloves or mitts should be worn whenever touching any part of the kiln when it is firing or cooling down. You should closely follow the kiln manufacturer's instruction manual, and use a licensed heating and air-conditioning (HAC) contractor to install the kiln properly. Electric kilns should be installed by a qualified electrician, and local electrical and fire safety codes must be followed. You can strike a match in front of the hood of the kiln. The toxic fumes given off by a ceramic kiln during firing include carbon monoxide released during reduction firing which can be lethal, sulfur dioxide released by firing metal-soluble salts which irritates the lungs and carbon dioxide which can elevate blood pressure dangerously. Therefore, observe these kiln safety tips. Do not operate the kiln in a wet place. Do not allow children or animals near a hot kiln. Never open the door when a kiln is firing. Do not unload a kiln until the kiln's surface and the fired pieces are completely cool to the touch. Be sure to turn all switches off before loading or unloading a kiln.
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