SafetyQuestion 347 of 360
A plumber is brazing a joint on a fitting that may be cadmium-plated in a small, poorly ventilated mechanical room. What is the primary hazard and control?
a.The fumes smell bad, so just open a window a crack
b.Toxic metal fumes (such as cadmium) require local exhaust ventilation and possibly respiratory protection
c.There is no fume hazard from brazing
d.Only the heat is a concern, not the fumes
Explanation
Heating cadmium-plated or certain silver-alloy filler metals releases toxic metal fumes that can cause severe lung injury even at low visible levels. Cal/OSHA requires controlling such exposures with adequate ventilation, preferably local exhaust, and respiratory protection under §5144 when ventilation is insufficient. Working in a tight, unventilated space multiplies the hazard, so ventilation is the first line of defense.
Law Reference: Cal/OSHA Title 8 §5144Practice all 360 questions free — no signup required.
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