Contact Dermatitis

Dermatitis is the medical term used to describe a skin inflammation. Contact with some materials, such as acids and bases, can cause irritative contact dermatitis, while other chemicals, such as photographic developers, may cause allergic contact dermatitis.

Early symptoms of irritative contact dermatitis may include dry, red, cracked or scaly skin at the site of contact. Symptoms may worsen with continued chemical exposure. In most cases of allergic contact dermatitis, the symptoms are itchy blisters similar to those seen from exposure to poison ivy or poison oak. Although the rash is usually confined to the site of contact, most often fingers, hands, and forearms, it may spread to other areas.

Sometimes people can work with a chemical for years without any noticeable effect, only to develop contact dermatitis at a later date. The time between contact and when a response develops varies widely among individuals. People with a history of skin allergies, eczema, or other skin disorders may be more susceptible to the effects of contact with chemicals.

If you think you have developed contact dermatitis, contact your manager. A medical examination may be required to determine the cause of the problem. Do not attempt to self-medicate with lotions or creams; they may make the problem worse.

To prevent contact dermatitis when handling photographic processing chemicals, follow these guidelines:

•Read the labels on chemical containers so you know what precautions to take when handling the contents.

•Avoid contact with chemicals whenever possible. Handle chemical solutions carefully to avoid splashing. Keep all PPE (gloves, goggles, apron, etc.) free of chemical residues.

•Wear the proper gloves. Do not use gloves sold for household use; they may not be durable enough for handling photographic processing chemicals. Neoprene or nitrile gloves protect you from photographic processing chemicals. To minimize the possibility of chemicals coming in contact with your bare hands, rinse gloves thoroughly with water before taking them off. On a regular basis or if chemicals get inside the gloves, wash them inside and out, and hang them by the fingertips to dry.

–Check gloves regularly for pinholes, leaks, or tears.

–Dispose of gloves when they are damaged or begin to degrade.

•In case of contact with chemicals, wash your hands or other affected skin areas immediately with plenty of water. If you get an alkaline solution, such as developer, on your skin, wash with a pH-balanced cleanser (like Phisoderm, Sulfo Hand Cleaner, or pH6). Ordinary soaps, which are alkaline, may not be as effective.

•Protect skin abrasions or cuts. The risk of contact dermatitis is increased if chemicals penetrate the skin. Skin damage by cuts or abrasions is especially susceptible to irritants.

•Change and launder clothing worn while handling chemicals. If photographic processing chemicals are splashed or spilled on your clothes, immediately rinse the clothes to remove the chemical residue. Wash contaminated clothing before wearing it again.

•Clean-up chemical spills or splashes immediately. Always wear personal protective equipment when cleaning up spilled photographic processing chemicals.

•Immediately report any unusual skin condition that you think might be related to photographic processing chemicals to your manager and to your physician. Conditions such as contact dermatitis can be caused by materials other than photographic processing chemicals; dermatitis usually will not improve until the cause is found and the condition is properly treated.

ABSORPTION OF

CHEMICALS

THROUGH THE SKIN

Some chemicals are able to enter the body by absorption through the skin. A variety of factors determine the effects of these chemicals including the toxicity of the chemical, its concentration and the duration of skin contact. Chemicals can have a toxic effect even without skin irritation. If tests indicate that a photographic processing chemical may be absorbed through the skin in amounts that could cause an adverse effect, the product label will include a precautionary statement, such as “HARMFUL IF ABSORBED THROUGH THE SKIN.” Always wear personal protective equipment when handling these chemicals.

Safe Handling of Photographic Processing Chemicals ∙ J-98A

J-98A specifications

The Kodak J-98A is a notable model in Kodak's extensive lineup of cameras, celebrated for its innovative design and functionality that caters to both amateur and professional photographers. Introduced during a period when competition in the photography market was intensifying, the J-98A stands out for its combination of ease of use and advanced technological features.

One of the key characteristics of the Kodak J-98A is its compact construction, which allows for portable photography without compromising on image quality. The camera features a robust lens system that ensures sharp focus and excellent color reproduction, making it ideal for various photography styles, from landscapes to portraits. The J-98A utilizes a sophisticated metering system that provides accurate exposure readings, enabling users to nail the perfect shot in different lighting conditions.

The body of the Kodak J-98A is designed with ergonomics in mind, featuring a comfortable grip that enhances stability when capturing images. Its intuitive controls allow users to quickly adjust settings, facilitating a seamless shooting experience. This is particularly useful for those who may be capturing spontaneous moments or working in dynamic environments.

In addition to its hardware advantages, the Kodak J-98A incorporates several innovative technologies. One of the standout features is its advanced autofocus system, which significantly reduces focus time and increases accuracy, even in low-light scenarios. This makes the J-98A especially appealing for photojournalists and event photographers who require swift performance under pressure.

The camera also supports various shooting modes that cater to different photographic needs. For instance, users can select from portrait mode, landscape mode, and even night mode, each optimizing the camera's settings for the specific scene. The inclusion of a built-in flash adds versatility, allowing for great indoor and nighttime photography without the need for external equipment.

Durability is another hallmark of the Kodak J-98A. Built to withstand the rigors of everyday photography, this model is weather-resistant to some extent, helping users to shoot in diverse environments without the fear of damage.

In summary, the Kodak J-98A is a well-rounded camera that embodies the blend of technology and user-friendly design. It caters to both novices and experienced shooters, making it a suitable choice for anyone looking to enhance their photographic skills while still enjoying the classic qualities that Kodak is renowned for. With its compelling features and reliability, the J-98A continues to hold relevance in the world of photography.