I'd read that as using B&W film to make masks, such as contrast masks, for color printing from color negs.
I checked the developer that Ctein recommends, and it's not really that hazardous to mix. Just be careful with potassium hydroxide because it's caustic and follow the instructions, but if you can handle Drano (which is sodium hydroxide and bleach), you can handle potassium hydroxide. That said, it's just a soft working developer, and while I'm sure Ctein tested many options and chose something that does the job well, if you want a soft working developer without having to handle bulk chemicals, try something like Microdol-X or Perceptol.