HEALTH HAZARDS OF SOFT SOLDERING IN THE ELECTRONICS INDUSTRY

: Soft Soldering has been used as a method of joining two metals for centuries. It is a commonly undertaken process in the electronics industry but only relatively recently have health hazards related to the activity been reported. Irritative symptoms are common but fumes from rosin cored solder are now additionally recognized as a cause of occupational asthma. Soldering of polyurethane enamels can also produce occupational asthma, the causative agent being toluene-di-isocyanate. Skin problems can also arise from contact with rosin flux. Control measures are necessary to control the exposure of individuals to solder fumes both in relation to the lead content of the solder and the problems related to the flux. Such control is achievable and can dramatically reduce the personal exposure to solder fumes.