Workshop Safety

Caution

We work with chemicals which are toxic, flammable, and caustic.We work with electricity - typically in very small doses, but sometimes with enough current to kill. We work with sharp things, and heavy things. Safety is a concern. These are some guidelines for a fun and safe experience.

Flammables: No smoking of course, but have you considered your test circuit may arc? Keep flammables outside and in the open. Besides the risk of starting a major fire, sparks can ignite gasses and produce a highly exothermic reaction! Uncontrolled explosions in confined places are no fun. Please don't blow it.

Toxics: Always, always, always wash your hands after working with solvents, fixatives, or any other compound with a skull-and-crossbones indicator.Obviously do not ingest or inhale. Less obvious risks: Over-spray, fumes, or residue. MOST solder is lead-free now, but pay attention to the specific bale. DO NOT use lead-based solder without a fume-extractor in close proximity.

Some solvents used for etching circuitry are readily absorbed through the skin. Use latex gloves when handling these sorts of chemicals.

Some metals other than lead can be toxic - copper, silver, or tin for example are found in wire and solder compounds. Although a morbid dose is unlikely with only a few exposures, over time inhaling or ingesting these metals can lead to significant health issues.

Metals such as Lithium or Cadmium found in batteries can not only be toxic, but volatile. ALL METALS IN GROUP 1 OF THE PERIODIC TABLE PRODUCE STRONG EXOTHERMIC REACTIONS WITH H2O! This can be quite a blast - literally. Although sodium bombs are fun when controlled, accidentally setting one off on a workbench or lab table is not.

Caustics: Battery acid, some solvent, and etching compounds are typically caustic, meaning they will breakdown organic matter readily.Sulfuric (battery) acid is usually encountered in a dilute form, and is not likely to produce more than an unpleasant rash on the skin, it will eat through cloths. Concentrated forms can be deadly. The solution (:chuckle:) for skin contact with caustics is immediate and thorough rinsing.

Electricity: Most applications will be dealing with Voltages around 6-9 volts at the most. These are not sufficient to kill, however capacitors can store a deadly charge. Although voltage in-and-of itself is not a deadly it is a component of current which DOES have a lethal limit..EVEN AT LOW VOLTAGE components can be destroyed.

Always switch OFF or DISCONNECT your power-source before changing components, or changing a board configuration.

Hots: Soldering irons get hot, so do saw-blades and batteries. These are not typically life-threatening, but are no fun none-the-less. There is a good chance that anything which produces friction also generates heat. Be aware of what you are about to touch. Avoid burns.

Heavies: When moving heavy objects (60+ lbs.) consider asking assistance - "Team Lift".Wear gloves and heavy shoes - preferably with steel-toe