Paul’s Blog: Not All About Rabbits

Soldering is a way to join things together using hot metal. It is commonly used in repairing and prototyping electric or electronic circuits. Mass-produced electronic circuits are also soldered but using a very different technique.

Because of the heat involved it can be a a dangerous activity for the inexperienced so it is recommended that you learn in person from somebody who is experienced at soldering.

The three main dangers from soldering are burns for the iron, fumes from the solder and other heated things, and the danger of starting a fire from the hot iron.

To reduce these dangers, always solder in a ventilated space - keep a window open, use a proper soldering iron stand, and take care when holding the soldering iron not to touch the hot element with either hand. If the soldering iron falls off the bench, dont try to catch it in midair, let it fall and hit the floor before you pick it up! Better to burn the floor a little than your hand.