Is lead in solder dangerous? (2023)
Soldering is a widely used technique in electrical and electronics applications.
The leaded solder which we generally use is a combination of 60% tin, 40% lead and also a wetting agent to help in the flow of solder called flux. Heat is involved in soldering so when the solder is heated, lead forms lead oxide fumes.
Yes, lead in solder is dangerous as it forms lead oxide. Lead oxide is toxic and has an adverse effect on the environment and human health when inhaled during soldering. It can cause indigestion, can affect health and impact the environment. When inhaled the lead fumes can cause respiratory problems. Using banned material lead in your product will affect your product market access.
It is important to note that the person who does soldering occasionally can’t be affected much but people who are always exposed to soldering can be affected badly.
In this article, we will understand lead and its risks and will also discuss how to avoid these risks
Let’s get started
Is lead in solder dangerous?
The inclusion leads in solder offers several benefits such as low melting point, and the ability to create good and reliable solder joints due to its improved wetting properties.
Despite these advantages, efforts to phase out lead in many applications have been made because of the risks it poses.
Understanding lead and its risks
Lead-based solder was the standard choice in electronics and plumbing for many years due to its low melting point and excellent soldering properties. However, as people came to know about lead’s negative impact, they started looking for alternatives.
Lead is recognized as a highly toxic metal by the World Health Organization (WHO). They have included lead in the 10 chemicals that can cause harm to human health.
Particularly in children, expectant women, and those who work in lead-related industries, lead can cause serious health problems. Many countries already banned the use of lead in solder, now lead-free solder is being used for soldering.
Let’s discuss the impact of lead in solder on our life.
1. Health Issues
The first reason for banning leaded solder was health issues. The person who does the majority of his/her time or occupation is soldering can have serious health issues due to lead fumes inhalation.
Due to prolonged exposure to lead common health issues like neurological disorders, kidney damage, reproductive issues and respiratory issues can be caused.
It’s better to use lead-free solder if you are fond of soldering.
2. Impact on the children
Kids are particularly susceptible to the adverse effects of lead exposure. The children can ingest or inhale the solder or its fumes without knowing what it is.
Sometimes children can eat the solder containing lead without knowing what it is. This lead inhalation and ingestion can cause serious health issues like delay in development and learning in children.
3. Environmental concerns
In many countries lead is banned due to its environmental concerns also. Improper handling and disposal of solder can cause realised of lead in the environment.
Lead poses threats to ecosystems and species by leaking into the soil, water, and air. This can lead to many other serious issues like a decrease in the growth and reproductive rate of animals and plants.
4. Banned in different regions
The use of lead has been banned in various countries and regions. In the application and products of electrical and electronics the use of lead is strictly forbidden due to its negative impact on health and environment.
Using such banned metal will subject you to unlawful acts and will minimise your product market access.
How to avoid potential risks caused by lead?
As we know leaded solder or lead in solder is dangerous for people whose occupation is soldering or who love to do soldering most of their time.
If you are working where leaded solder will give you effect results then some safety measures should be taken to avoid the harm that can be caused due to lead.
1. Work in well-ventilated area
When in an area where the ventilation system is not well it will lead to higher exposure to toxic fumes of lead. Always solder in a well-ventilated and soldering near the exhaust fan or open window is preferable.
The risk of inhalation is decreased by proper ventilation, which aids in dispersing any lead fumes or dust that may be produced while soldering.
2. Utilized a fume extractor
Use a fume extractor (Amazon link) while performing the soldering tasks.
The fume which is released during soldering is captured and removed by this device. This also improves air quality in your workplace.
3. Wear protective gadgets
While doing soldering try to wear protective gear, such as safety glasses and goggles to protect your eyes from solder splashes. To prevent your skin make use of safety gloves.
If you have to work with leaded solder extensively, use a lab coat or assign work cloth to minimize the exposure to lead contamination.
4. Cleaning
Keep the place where you work neat and organized. Reduce the amount of lead dust produced by avoiding using excessive flux or solder spatter. To keep your soldering iron tip in good condition, use a sponge or brass wire tip cleaning.
Never eat, drink, or smoke in your soldering area to prevent ingestion of lead dust or particles that may settle on surfaces or tools.
5. Wash hands and face after soldering
After soldering, wash your hands and face thoroughly to remove any lead that comes in contact with your skin while performing soldering. Avoid touching your face, eating, or drinking while working with leaded solder.
6. Use lead-free solder
Lead-free is a solder used in electronics which doesn’t contain lead in its composition. This is one of the safe alternatives of leaded solder without the health risks caused by lead.
Consider using lead-free solder for projects where leaded solder is not required.
7. Lead waste management
Lead soldering waste is considered as dangerous. Use a container with a lid to discard the lead solder. It is necessary to dispose of used solder sponges and dirty rags as hazardous trash.
The container which has lead solder waste should be metal and labelled properly.
8. Educate yourself and others
It is important to know about the potential risk of lead while working with lead solder. The joints created by leaded solder are strong and reliable but lead can cause you serious health problems.
Educate yourself and others in your workspace about the risks and safety measures. Encourage everyone to follow proper safety protocols.
Conclusion
Lead in solder is dangerous for the people who are exposed to it most of the time. In many countries, the use of lead has been increasingly regulated due to its toxic nature.
Lead in solder is not environment friendly and can cause serious health issues related to respiration and other diseases. It is always good to look for other better options.
Taking some measurement precautions can help you to minimise the risk of lead. You can use lead-free solder, can work in a ventilated area, and also wearing personal protective equipment can reduce the risk.
Also, wash your hands and face to remove any lead contamination and never eat or drink in your workplace. Keep the tip of the soldering iron clean. Follow proper waste management protocol for discarding lead solder waste.
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