Keep each tray’s tongs identifiable

Assign the tools

Use suitable tongs for the chosen materials and clearly associate them with their trays. ILFORD recommends separate tongs to avoid chemical cross-contamination during paper processing. Set the arrangement before exposing paper and follow the relevant cleaning and protective-equipment instructions. Do not rely solely on a colour you cannot distinguish under the safelight.

Evidence: Manufacturer guidance

Rehearse the transfer

Practise the physical route with an appropriate expendable sample before processing a valued print. Keep the working area clear and avoid dripping between unrelated containers. Record and correct a mix-up instead of assuming it cannot affect the bath simply because the print looks acceptable immediately.