Safety

Chemicals

  • Soldering should be carried out in a well-ventilated area; avoid inhaling the fumes; use lead-free solder; wear suitable eye protection as solder may splatter
  • Caution is required with chemicals such as solvents and cleaners; avoid inhalation
  • Some power transistors contain Beryllium Oxide (BeO).  Don’t open any device containing it.  It is toxic if inhaled in dust form
  • Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were used in transformers and high voltage capacitors – names to watch for are Arachlor, Pyrochlor, Pyranol and Asbestol.  Special disposal arrangements