Soldering Safety

The purpose of these guidelines is to provide direction to University labs and shops that may conduct soldering as part their day-to-day operations. These guidelines are intended to complement employee training. Whenever possible, replace lead solder with lead-free solder and rosin flux with a less toxic product such as petroleum jelly to reduce the hazards. Please contact Environment, Health and Safety at 919-962-5507 if you have any questions or concerns about these guidelines.

Hazards

• The primary route of exposure to lead from soldering is ingestion due to surface contamination.
• Lead is a probable human carcinogen and known central nervous system toxicant. Lead has no beneficial role in the human body. Exposure to elevated levels of lead in adults can cause:
  • High blood pressure
  • Joint and muscle pain
  • Problems with memory and concentration
  • Headache
  • Abdominal pain
  • Mood disorders
• Lead is even more of a concern for pregnant women and children. Lead can cause:
  • Miscarriage
  • Premature birth
  • Low birth weight
  • Developmental delays
• Solder flux containing rosin (also called colophony) can cause asthma or make existing asthmatic conditions worse. The fumes can also cause eye and upper respiratory tract irritation.

Precautions

• Review the manufacturer’s Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for the specific materials you are using before beginning work.
• Identify the location of the nearest eyewash prior to work.
• Wear all necessary personal protective equipment for soldering. This includes gloves, safety glasses and any other appropriate personal protective equipment.
• Do not eat or drink in the soldering area. Post signs in these areas as needed.
• Utilize local exhaust ventilation such as a capture hood (snorkel) or benchtop fume extractor with a HEPA filter when using lead solder or rosin flux. If a local exhaust ventilation system cannot be obtained, solder in a fume hood.
• Do not touch the element or tip of the soldering iron when they are hot. Can cause burns.
• Allow soldered joints to cool before touching them.
• Turn soldering iron off or unplug when not in use.
• After soldering, wash arms and hands thoroughly. Clean the soldering area with soapy water or a cleaning agent. If using lead solder, clean the area with trisodium phosphate or a similar lead removal product.
• All lead solder waste must be collected in a hazardous waste container. Label the container as “Lead Solder Waste for Recycling.” Replace the lid when not in use. When this container is full, submit a Hazardous Materials Pickup Form.

Emergency Procedures

• If an accident occurs, report immediately to the lab supervisor or other appropriate staff member.
• Immediately cool burns under cold water for 15 minutes. Do not apply any creams or ointments.
• Seek medical attention as necessary.