Inland Craft Products, Inc.

This online version is provided courtesy of Inland Craft Products, Inc. You can view the complete manual and obtain a PDF version from the "How To" section on the Inland Craft website. 

 Safety

The Importance of Safety

One of the most important aspect of soldering any stained glass project is to take the proper measures to safeguard your health. Soldering involves working with potentially hazardous materials like lead, flux and harmful fumes. By observing specific safety precautions and using informed common sense, working in stained glass can be a safe and enjoyable past time. The following is intended to serve as a general rule of thumb. Since each person and situation is unique, you should use this information as a starting point to help you make informed safety decisions concerning your soldering habits.

Fumes

  
 Solder only in a well ventilated area, and use an exhaust device that moves solder fumes away from your face. It's preferable to exhaust outside (check local/state building codes and restrictions on venting to outside air). If you don't exhaust to the outside, use a bench top fan or intake device with a replaceable smoke/fume absorber made for stained glass artists. It should draw solder fumes into the replaceable filter. The filter should be activated charcoal and designed to remove particles smaller than 1/2 micron from the air. There are also several OSHA approved respirators available for fumes. Consider wearing one in conjunction with a venting system, especially if you plan on soldering for several hours every day.

Lead

  
Most popular solders used in stained glass are lead based. When you are using them, follow these precautions:
  • Never eat, drink, or smoke in any area where soldering takes place.
  • Always thoroughly wash your hands after soldering.
  • Make sure your soldering equipment and supplies are kept out of the reach of children.
  • Do not discard lead or solder scraps into the trash. Find a means or place to recycle them.
  • Never use lead based solders or cames on items that will come in contact with food or children, or will be frequently handled. If you are making kaleidoscopes, jewelry or napkin holders, use lead free solder.
  • Consider having your blood lead level checked by your physician on a regular basis to help you monitor your handling practices. If you are pregnant, or considering it, you should check with your doctor before using lead or solder.

Heat

  
 Soldering tools operate at high temperatures, so these safeguards are important:
  • Wear safety glasses! Solder and flux can "pop" and "spit."
  • Solder on a fire resistant surface. Homosote, or dry wall are good.
  • Never leave your iron plugged in and unattended.
  • Do not overload a wall outlet with too many electric appliances.
  • Never set your hot iron down on anything other than an iron stand.
  • Replace the cord of your iron if it becomes worn or gets burnt.
  • To prevent burning your fingers, use needle nose pliers or heat resistant gloves to hold small pieces.
  • Never cut off a grounding prong on an iron plug to make it fit an ungrounded receptacle.
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