[DCHAS-L] Lead-Based Soldering

Good Morning, 

I wanted to ask the listserv for assistance with a topic that was recently brought to my attention at my institution. I recently discovered that we have a lab that has in the past performed tin/lead soldering with traditional flux and our University Lab Safety and Biosafety Committee asked that they switch to non-lead-based soldering for safety concerns. The instructor of the course has let me know that he has in the past built in a safety procedure to have students wash their hands following lead-based soldering to prevent potential exposure. There is a snorkel in the room which can be used for ventilation purposes but the working space is limited for the number of students in the class. Since switching to non-lead based soldering, the instructor has reported issues with the fumes generated from the flux to the point that students have stopped their work and/or soldering was completely removed for the day. Given the tradeoffs with either side, how has your institution handled the topic of soldering? What safety requirements are implemented when it comes to lead-based soldering? Thank you!