Health and Safety in Soft Soldering

The health and safety of those involved to some degree in soft soldering can be subject to the effects of solder, flux, solderable enamels and solvents. The lead content of solder must be carefully monitored and precautionary measures taken. Flux can present a hazard related to the content of colophony, whose fumes are known to cause occupational asthma, skin, throat and eye irritation. Asthma is also attributable to the isocyanate content of solderable enamels, whilst isopropyl alcohol as found in solvents can lead to dry, cracked skin, headaches and dizziness, in addition to constituting a fire risk. Solutions offered to overcome these problems include local exhaust ventilation, total enclosure of the work and provision of personal protection. Further precautions and an awareness of the problems, accompanied by close medical observation of employees, should help minimise the potential dangers.