The Art and Creative Materials Institute (ACMI) is an organization that provides safety standards and certification for art and creative materials used by artists, educators, and children. Established in 1936, ACMI aims to ensure the safety and quality of these materials, offering guidance to manufacturers and users through its certification program.
ACMI’s primary role is to evaluate and certify art materials for their levels of toxicity, potential hazards, and quality. They conduct extensive testing to determine if the products meet the specific safety criteria outlined in their standards. Art and creative materials that meet these requirements receive the AP (Approved Product) Seal or the CL (Cautionary Labeling) Seal from ACMI, indicating their suitability for use with children, adults, or both.
The AP Seal indicates that the product has been tested by medical experts and deemed non-toxic and safe for use in art and creative activities. On the other hand, the CL Seal identifies products that may contain certain ingredients that are more likely to cause allergic reactions or adverse effects. The CL Seal serves as a precautionary measure, providing users with information about potential hazards and advising caution during use.
Overall, the Art and Creative Materials Institute plays a crucial role in promoting safety, awareness, and informed decision-making within the art community, making it an essential resource for artists, educators, and parents alike.
