For cyclocross riders, August is the month for peeling off old tires, cleaning rims, and gluing up fresh new tubulars. I hope you enjoy the anticipation of the season to come. I also hope you'll protect your health while you do.
I remember an old magazine article in which longtime pro mechanic Julien Devries was proudly showing off the yellow, thickened fingernails and skin he earned through years of handling the chemicals involved in the tubular life. It was a point of pride for him, but it was also a visible effect of poor work practices. There were likely invisible ones as well.
In another life, I work with enough environmental scientists to know that both dermal exposure to and inhalation of products like acetone and mastic can have real effects that can last well beyond the day you hang up those wheels. Those effects are easily avoided.
So, as you get your wheels set for this season, wear a mask. Wear gloves. Stay healthy. Race better.