Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 2001/06/10
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]I used Dektol for years before developing (pun-ha) a sensitivity to it, except mine manifested itself in extreme nausea, and a feeling of death itself that lasted for hours. I was tested by my doctor, who spent quite a bit of time talking with a toxicologist at Kodak. They came to the conclusion that I had become sensitive to metol. Because I insisted on using the stuff because I like the tones it produces, I was forced to wear a painter's mask -- for almost 15 years -- in the darkroom. A squirrel-cage fan mounted into a hood over the sink was ineffective. About a year or so ago, I discovered Ilford's Multigrade developer, and if I dilute with water not quite as much as the directions recommend, I get a pretty good range of times on Ilford papers -- both RC and fiber, and on Kodak, Forte and Agfa papers as well. There is nothing like a metol free life! I have never met anyone who has the same reaction to Dektol (metol) as I do. Others I have talked to mention the same (skin) reactions you do. Even the fellow at Kodak said my reaction to the stuff is unusual. Carl Cook Olympia, WA I have also acquired a similar sensitivity to used fixer. A good whiff and I'm headed for the toilet bowl. I just change fix often and have not had a problem in years. > ><Snip> > > > > metol sensitivity builds up quickly and when it kicks in, it's VERY > > unpleasant. Itching scabbing yuk. > > > > as I discovered when I mixed my own D23. > > > > -- > > John Brownlow > > > > http://www.pinkheadedbug.com > >You got off easy John some people when they get Metol sensitivity that's >it for >them in the darkroom. They break out in a rash when they touch the door knob! >It's good that just the use of rubber gloves gets you off the hook. It >does me. >I try to avoid breathing any of it or touching it. >I was just reading in Ansel Adams 1983 THE PRINT and he does not use tongs but >uses his fingers in his trays!!! >Found that surprising it was not as if he was inflexible in his darkroom >techniques. He was always modernizing incredibly. > clcook@halcyon.com http://www.halcyon.com/clcook/photowks.htm