CHAPTER 3 ■ SAFETY
Everyone knows that smoking is bad for you. But, sometimes people forget about the potential for
smoking to act as an ignition source for flammable chemicals or fumes. This is especially a danger in poorly
ventilated rooms.
Storing Properly
Store chemicals and tools up high and lock them securely to keep them away from children.
Place chemicals and raw materials away from heat sources, such as soldering irons, heat guns, stoves,
furnaces, and water heaters (think of the pilot light). If you transfer chemicals to a different container,
or simply expose something to a chemical during use, be sure to label the item properly, including all
appropriate warnings.
Talking About Your Activities, Materials, and Tools
Speak to your friends and family members about the items and chemicals you have. This is especially
important if you are prone to stealing your spouse’s Tupperware® bowl for etching copper circuit boards
(not me, of course). You don’t want the bowl reclaimed for its original purpose.
Washing Before Eating
After any soldering, painting, sanding, chemical or otherwise soiling job, don’t eat or drink anything until
you’ve had a chance to clean yourself up. At the very least, wash your hands with soap and water.
Avoiding Nasty Elements
In years past, matter was chosen based primarily on its beneficial attributes. However, as environmental and
material sciences progress, the negative characteristics of a particular matter is being given more significant
consideration. Many seemingly benign or marginally acceptable substances are now found to be too
dangerous or polluting.
Toxic elements are of serious concern. Unlike compounds, elements can’t be destroyed by chemical
reactions, such as fire or incineration. However, when disposed of properly, many can be recycled or
chemically neutralized.
Figure 3-3. Even an inexpensive dust mask can help protect your nose, throat, and lungs