Vectronics VEC-1500K - Manual (Page 16)

11
LESSON 3
Soldering--Health and Safety
Industrial hygienists evaluate occupational safety in terms of acute and chronic
health hazards. Acute hazards relate to immediate threats from traumatic injury.
A misplaced cable that causes someone to trip and fall downstairs is an acute
health hazard. Chronic hazards relate to long-term threats from toxic agents. A
chemical known to cause cancer after prolonged exposure to its fumes is a
chronic health hazard. Soldering isn't regarded as a high-risk activity in either
category, but there are hazards you need to know about and avoid.
Acute Hazards
Burns: The most obvious short-term health hazard associated with solder is
heat. Iron tips typically operate at 600-800 degrees F, and the temperature of
molten solder exceeds 350 degrees F. Moreover, liquidous solder can spatter
over a wide area without warning. Either of these heat sources can inflict painful
burns and even permanent injury.
To reduce your vulnerability to heat-related injuries, always wear appropriate
clothing and eye protection (no shorts or tanks tops if you value your skin). In
the event of accidental skin contact with a hot iron or hot solder, immediately
run cold water over the burn area. This first-aid response cools skin rapidly to
limit tissue damage, and anesthetizes damaged nerve endings to reduce pain!
Never apply butter or any other substance--only ice or a cool wet towel. If
severe blistering or wounding breaks the skin barrier, seek further medical
attention as soon as possible to prevent secondary infection. Also, have any eye
injury
resulting from a solder spatter checked at once--no matter how minor.
Electric Shock: Electrocution is a second acute hazard associated with
soldering and solder irons. Most thermostatically-controlled solder stations
supply low voltage to soldering tools, greatly reducing the risk of injury.
However, solder-station control units, self-contained desoldering tools, and un-
regulated bench irons usually connect directly to the 110-volt AC line. Inspect
plugs and power cords frequently for heat damage, iron burns, or wear. Also,
confirm the integrity of power-plug grounds. Damaged power cords should
always be replaced, and never repaired using electrical tape or shrink tubing!
Finally, never attempt soldering operations on a piece of electronic equipment
while it is connected to a power source!