Editing Soldering iron (section)

== Safety precautions ==

=== Electro-static Discharge ===
Not all soldering irons are ESD-safe.

Although some manufacturers' mains-powered models are built with the element shaft (and hence the tip) electrically connected to ground via the iron's mains lead,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.antex.co.uk/technical/faqs/ |quote=[It] is appropriate to routinely test mains powered irons and stations... Guidance values for the tester settings [include:] Earth Bond Test ... pass result: < 0.1 Ohm ... A higher reading (i.e. up to 0.5 Ohm) can still be regarded as safe because the earth connection from the plug to the element shaft is welded or soldered throughout... |title=FAQ's |publisher=Antex (Electronics) Limited |access-date=2018-08-28}}</ref> other models' tips may float at arbitrary voltages unless an additional grounding wire is used.<ref name="hackaday.com"/>

=== Lead Exposure ===
Melting the solder can release toxic fumes, particularly solder with higher proportions of lead. It is recommended to work in a well-ventilated area; to avoid inhaling the toxic fumes; and to wash hands with soap after operating with a soldering iron. It is also recommended to use lead-free solder to mitigate the risks of lead exposure.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |title=Safe Soldering Work Practices |url=https://www.hvcc.edu/ehs/health/safe-soldering-work-practices.pdf}}</ref><ref name=":2">{{Cite web |last=Slack |first=Ian |date=2018-03-27 |title=Soldering Safety |url=https://safety.eng.cam.ac.uk/safe-working/copy_of_soldering-safety |access-date=2025-01-27 |website=safety.eng.cam.ac.uk |language=en}}</ref>

=== High Temperature ===
When operating, the iron can reach temperatures in the range of 200-480°C.<ref name="tms.org 1997 o256" /> Never touch the heating element, since doing so while hot will cause one to contract [[Burn|skin burns]]. Make sure to switch off the device and hold it on the soldering stand when not in use - placing it directly on the workbench may cause it to make contact and damage the surface and nearby objects. Ensure that the cleaning sponge is wet while in operation.<ref name=":1" /><ref name=":2" />

=== Solder Ejection ===
Sometimes, molten solder can "spit" or spatter, ejecting out from the wire and potentially causing damage to eyes and skin. This is caused by air pockets. Always wear appropriate eye protection, like [[Goggles|safety goggles]] and fireproof clothing (like 100% cotton), covering the arms and legs and wear toe-closed shoes.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Solder Baths & Pots {{!}} Kaisertech Ltd |url=https://kaisertech.co.uk/products/soldering/solder-pots-baths#:~:text=Safety%20Precautions%20When%20Using%20A,the%20line%20fume%20extractors%20here. |access-date=2025-01-27 |website=kaisertech.co.uk}}</ref><ref name=":2" /><ref name=":1" />