Alcohol retort plus acrylic stem equals no. However you can still retort the shank if you make the right adapter. The shank is what really matters anyway.
As for safety, a big metal cookie sheet set in a fairly clear area with a standard kitchen fire extinguisher (you should have one anyway for the kitchen) and you should be good. As for ppe, some safety glasses, gloves and an apron will do fine. As someone who has done grinding, welding, cooking and other way more dangerous activities this isn't as dangerous as some make it sound.
