Health implications of storing chemicals in print processors?

[jrong]

I was just thinking... For those of us living in cramped, tight spaces, the Nova print processor can seem like a godsend. It also saves on chemicals as we can just top up the developer and fixer as/when needed. However, if you're living in a cramped and tiny apartment, what are the health implications of leaving chemicals in the processor for weeks on end? The developer/fixer eventually evaporate somewhat, in spite of the plastic rods placed on top of the processor slots.

Jin

 

[Wayne]

I dont think you have anything to worry about, but if you want to prevent evaporation why not seal the Nova off with cellophane (Saran Wrap) after each use?


Wayne

 

[Dave Miller]

Isn't just the water that evaporates?

 

[Changeling1]

I was just thinking... For those of us living in cramped, tight spaces, the Nova print processor can seem like a godsend. It also saves on chemicals as we can just top up the developer and fixer as/when needed. However, if you're living in a cramped and tiny apartment, what are the health implications of leaving chemicals in the processor for weeks on end? The developer/fixer eventually evaporate somewhat, in spite of the plastic rods placed on top of the processor slots.

Jin

Nice website and photographs, Jin. I'd would love to see some pix of your darkroom set-up.
I may be moving to a new space with less space and would like to see how others are making do with what they have. I don't think I'd use any of the pyro developers in tight places though.

 

[Jon Butler]

I agree with Wayne, I and all the people I know that use a Nova cover the top with cling film between sessions to stop both smell and evaporation.
JON

 

[jrong]

Thanks for the replies. I should get some cling film I guess.

I don't have a darkroom set-up, as such. I am using my bathroom which is very cramped (and right beside my bedroom, hence the question about health implications of evaporating chemicals...). It is about 5 feet by 7 feet, I set up my enlarger on the floor, and with the print processor, easel and other bits, I barely have space to move around much. It is only a temporary set-up, in the evenings when I need to print, and then everything gets stored away again (except the print processor).

The cling film is a good idea. I tried wrapping it in plastic once but that didn't work too well.