Vectronics VEC-1500K - Manual (Page 17)

12
Chronic Hazards
Lead Poisoning: Lead is a toxic substance that accumulates in the body over
time. If toxic levels are reached, the impact on health will be serious. Medical
outcomes may include damage to productive organs, cancer, birth defects, colic,
kidney disease, paralysis, brain damage, and even death! Fortunately, electronic
soldering is done at temperatures well below the "fuming point" of lead, so lead
vapors pose little threat to your health. Mishandling lead-bearing solder wire
presents a greater long-term hazard. Each time you use solder wire, a small
quantity of lead is transferred to your fingers. This, in turn, may be ingested
when you handle food or smoke cigarettes. Although the amount of lead
transferred may be small, it can accumulate to dangerous levels over time. To
prevent unwanted lead from accumulating in your system, it's extremely
important to wash your hands thoroughly after handling solder--especially before
eating or smoking!
Flux Fume Inhalation: Solder fluxes may also present a chronic health hazard.
Some flux vapors contain mineral acids that are irritating to the skin and toxic to
inhale. Repeated exposure may produce asthma-like repertory symptoms or
chronic throat irritation. To minimize your exposure to flux vapors, ventilate the
area around your soldering station. A small portable air-filter, or a larger ducted
ventilation system, work well for removing airborne irritants. If ventilation is
unavailable, avoid breathing in visible plumes of smoke or strong-smelling
vapors. Even a small fan aimed across your work area will help to blow irritants
clear and reduce exposure.
Other Workplace Hazards: In addition to solder, electronic work areas
usually harbor a collection of flux solvents, degreasing chemicals, and PC board
etching chemicals. Also, high-speed drilling and abrasive cleaning of PC boards
generates airborne particles of epoxy and copper dust. Most of these substances
present one or more health hazard, ranging from mild respiratory irritation to
severe or deadly toxic effects. Be sure to obtain and read MSDS information
(hazardous material data sheets) for all chemicals stored in your work area.
Know how to use them properly, and know what to do in case of an accidental
spill or over-exposure!