LEAD SAFETY INFORMATION

For Customers Using Lead Came & Solder in Stained Glass

Why this matters

Lead is a traditional material used in stained glass. It can be harmful if ingested or inhaled over time. This leaflet outlines simple steps to work safely.

Key Safety Rules

1. Wash hands thoroughly after handling lead and before eating or drinking.

2. Do not eat, drink or smoke in your work area.

3. Keep your work area clean using damp cloths or suitable filtered vacuum.

4. Cutting lead for use in stained glass is done by using a knife, so doesn’t create dust. Take extra precautions handling traditional paints that contain lead. Note that when dismantling old lead came in panels, lead oxide can create dust and as a result is far more hazardous than when working with or handling new lead came.  

5. Use an FFP3 mask, good ventilation when soldering and avoid breathing fumes. Fumes from soldering at the temperatures involved in stained glass work are from flux (tallow, gel or liquid) 350–430 °C which is recommended for stained glass soldering is well below lead's boiling point, meaning the visible smoke is usually just vaporised flux rather than lead. We recommend keeping your iron below 430°C - our Hakko soldering irons have a temerature setting dial to help with managing this.

Protective Measures

Use gloves when handling lead, wear protective clothing when using paint or dismantling old panels, like aprons or lab coats to minimise transfer of lead from the studio space on your clothing.  Wash these separately. Use eye protection when cutting or soldering.

Additional Advice

Keep materials away from children. Avoid working in kitchens or food areas. Extra care should be taken by those pregnant or planning pregnancy.

Storage and Disposal

Store lead materials securely and dispose of waste appropriately via recognised routes. Do not dispose of lead in household waste.  You can return waste lead came or solder to us for recycling free of charge.