Safety Guide

Disclaimer and Liability Notice

This candle-making course is intended for educational and enrichment purposes only.
The course creator does not provide safety, medical, or legal advice.

Candle making involves the use of open flame, heat, and flammable materials.
All participants are responsible for taking full safety precautions, working in a well-ventilated environment, and keeping flammable substances, children, and pets away at all times.

By following the instructions and techniques presented in this course, you accept full responsibility for your own actions and outcomes.
Fun N’ Handy Inc. shall not be held liable for any direct or indirect damages, injuries, or losses that may result from the use or misuse of the materials taught in this course.

Candle Making Safety Guidelines

Important Notice: These guidelines are essential for a safe candle-making experience. Always prioritize safety when working with hot wax, heat sources, and flammable materials. These instructions cover safety during the production process.

(For information on consumer fire safety labeling for finished candles, please refer to the CPSC guidelines and ASTM F2058 - Candle Fire Safety Labeling).

Working Environment

• Work Surface: Always work on a level, stable, and heat-resistant surface. A dedicated silicone craft mat is recommended.
• Ventilation: Ensure the workspace is well-ventilated. Work near an open window or use an exhaust fan to maintain good airflow.
• Clear Area: Keep the work area clear of all flammable materials, including paper, fabrics, aerosols, alcohol, and clutter.
• Fire Safety: Keep an accessible fire extinguisher (rated Class B, suitable for flammable liquids/grease fires) nearby. Never use water to extinguish a wax fire.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Eye Protection: Wear safety goggles to protect your eyes from hot wax splashes.
• Hand Protection: Wear heat-resistant gloves to protect your hands from burns when handling hot pots or containers.
• Clothing: Wear a protective apron and natural-fiber clothing (like cotton). Synthetic fabrics (e.g., polyester, nylon) can melt onto the skin if they come into contact with high heat or flame.

Working with Wax

• Melting Method: Only melt wax using a double boiler (a pot placed over a second, larger pot of simmering water, also known as a bain-marie).
• Direct Heat: Never melt wax directly over a flame, on a stovetop, or in a microwave. This creates hot spots and is a severe fire hazard.
• Temperature Control: Use a dedicated thermometer. Do not heat wax above 90°C (194°F) or its specific flash point (the temperature at which its vapors can ignite). Overheating is extremely dangerous and can cause the wax to spontaneously combust.
• Supervision: Never leave melting wax unattended, even for a moment.
• Wax and Water: Never pour water onto hot wax. This will cause a violent splatter (similar to a grease fire) and can spread a fire. Ensure all equipment is completely dry before use.

Additives and Colorants

• Temperature: Add fragrance oils and colorants only after removing the wax from the heat source. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for the specific temperature to add fragrance (adding it when the wax is too hot can cause it to "burn off" or create a fire risk).
• Approved Materials: Only use fragrance oils and colorants specifically designed and approved for candle making.
• Prohibited Materials: Do not use oils not intended for high-heat applications (e.g., some essential oils, potpourri oils) or flammable liquids. Do not use water-based colorants (like food coloring), as they will not mix with the wax.
• Mixing: Add additives in small increments and stir gently but thoroughly.

Working with Molds and Wicks

• Wick Centering: Securely center the wick in the mold or container. A centered wick is crucial for a safe, even burn in the finished candle.
• Equipment: Use only clean and completely dry molds and containers. Any moisture can cause dangerous splattering when the hot wax is poured.
• Handling: Do not touch or move the container after pouring until the wax has significantly cooled. Allow candles to cure and cool completely (often 24 hours) before handling.

Cleanup and Storage

• Cleaning Tools: Clean wax residue from tools (like the pouring pitcher) while the wax is still warm and pliable, but not scalding hot.
• Storage: Store all supplies (wax, dyes, fragrance oils) in a cool, dry place, out of direct sunlight.
• Child Safety: Keep all materials safely stored out of reach of children and pets.
• Final Check: Ensure all heat sources (stovetop, melting pot) are turned off completely at the end of your session.

Important Reminders & First Aid

• Children and Pets: Keep children and pets away from the active work area at all times.

First Aid for Burns: In the event of a burn from hot wax, immediately run cool (not ice-cold) water over the affected area for several minutes. Do not attempt to peel off the wax, as this can tear the skin. If the burn is severe, covers a large area, or is in a sensitive area, seek immediate medical attention.