Where the
world gathers for metal finishing
Q&As since 1989


-----

Minimum Protection While Metal Finishing

2006

I recently was assigned to help with maintaining the tanks in our metal finishing department. We use mostly Oakite [Chemetall] products for etching, clear coating and gold finishes. I'm constantly Titrating the baths to check concentration. In addition, I have to treat the waste tank for safe Chromium disposal. We use Nitric Acid and Oakite Dispoz-Aid 1 & 2 for this process. I always wear rubber gloves [on eBay or Amazon] and eye protection (goggles [on eBay or Amazon]) but seldom wear a respirator. I use a dust mask when handling the dry chemicals.

I was wondering what safety gear others are wearing in their shops and what they recommend.

Thanks.

David Johnson
Metal Finishing - Los Angeles, California, USA

---

2006

David,

Please read your Material Safety Data Sheets very carefully. All the information you need is contained within.

I do not have experience with the particular chemicals you are dealing with, but from experience I know that dust masks are inefficient at best, a danger at worst because it gives you a false sense of security.

If you are still uncertain, stop using the chemicals and talk directly to Oakite, who will be happy to give you all the advice you need.

Brian Terry
Aerospace - Yeovil, Somerset, UK