Safety glasses are a must have. In 2011 I was using some lead sinkers a friend had sent me and when I added a 12 oz sinker to the pot it exploded sending lead everywhere, even hit the ceiling. I had burns on my hands and lead was hanging from my eye lashes. It could have been much worse. I posted pictures on here I believe but don't know how to go back that far and find it. Before I sit down to pour the glasses go on.