Since brazing is a process requiring heat, precautions should be taken for handling hot objects to prevent workers from being burned. Proper outer clothing, preferably woolen, and eye protection should be worn. Protective gloves should be worn when handling the chemicals used for brazing. Chemicals such as acids and alkalines are sometimes used to clean parts before brazing and can produce chemical burns if allowed to come in contact with the skin. The caution notices on the packages should be followed when using brazing fluxes.
Fumes generated during brazing can be a serious hazard.
Brazing fluxes generate fluoride fumes when heated. Cadmium in silver brazing alloys vaporizes when overheated and produces cadmium oxide, a highly toxic substance. If cadmium oxide fumes are inhaled into the respiratory tract, they can cause pulmonary distress, shortness of breath and in cases of severe exposure, may cause death. When using silver solder, the prescription listed below should be followed. Know the materials with which you are working.