Hazards & Health Effects of Solder Fumes
                     Hazards & Health Effects of Solder Fumes
What are solder fumes?
Solder fumes are metal vapors expelled into 
the air as a result of the heat + pressure of 
soldering. So why does this happen?Soldering 
itself is the process of melting metal alloys in 
order to form a bond. As a result, the solder 
flux turns into a gas and releases these fumes 
into the air.
Why are Solder Fumes Health Hazard?
Solder fumes contain heavy metals which are 
toxic to humans. As a result, the consensus is 
that solder fumes represent a serious 
occupational health hazard, and workers 
should be protected from these effects 
through proper ventilation, 
solder fume extractor, and personal 
protective equipment (PPE).
Soldering Fumes Health Effects
The health effects of soldering fumes highly 
depend on which metals are used in the 
soldering process. All heavy metals can be 
toxic if ingested, however not all heavy metals 
are as toxic and the dose required to be toxic 
can vary. It’s wise to treat all fumes as toxic 
and prevent the inhalation of any soldering 
fumes.
Protect Yourself & Your Workers?
Proper ventilation throughout the shop is an 
absolute must. Not to mention, fume capture 
devices must be used.  At IP Systems USA, we 
provide a variety of mobile and fixed fume 
capture devices that are excellent for solder 
fumes.
In Summary
• Soldering fumes are an occupational health hazard caused by metal 
vapors.
• Proper ventilation throughout the shop is key.
• Fume extractors should always be used at soldering workstations.
• PPE will prevent contact with heavy metals that causes toxicity.
Click here for more information!
Contact Us Today
770-614-7701
IP Systems, LLC
50-A Satellite Blvd [email protected]
NW m
Suwanee, GA 30024
IPSystemsUSA.com