Posted By Deirdre Gallagher
Could anyone point me in the right direction for info on the harmful effects of Soldering as a member of staff is complaining of painful eyes and the Opthalmologists confirm that it is due to a particular chemical irritating the eyes , but the only work he undertakes is Soldering for maybe a few minutes every 1 to 3 days...I need more info and i suspect the Risk assessment which would highlight the hazards of soldering doesnt exist!!

Posted By Bill Morrison
Deirdre, The solder you use will have a safety data sheet giving you all the info you need. You should get this from the supplier of your solder. Soldering can cause irritation to the eyes and in my experience some people are far more susceptible to its effect than others. We have put in place extraction systems that take any solder/flux fumes away from the source immediately the iron touches the solder, as well as good general ventilation. I have to say that on two occasions we have had to remove people from carrying out soldering because they were extremely sensitive to its effects.

Bill

Posted By john r sharp
Deirdre

The flux in solder, if my memory serves me, is Colophonium Resin- a naturally occurring resin extracted from a tree- can't remember which!!

It is known to cause irritation to the eyes and the respiratory tract.

You do need to carry out a COSHH assessment,get information from the supplier/ manufacturer: I would also look at extracting the fume produced at source. ie A local exhaust ventilation system: doesn't have to be complicated- sufficient to remove the fume from the breathing zone to the outside.

HSE have also produced a leaflet on its use, this may be of use.


Regards

John

Posted By john r sharp
Further to earlier posting:

Have a look at INDG248- Solder Fume and You- lots of useful info.

John