6. Health and safety

Bonding involves the use of chemicals, not all of which are harmless, whether adhesives or surface treatments (degreasing, washing and pickling). Precautions must be taken with solvents and bath solutions, which can be flammable or corrosive to the skin. When sanding and sandblasting, avoid inhaling dust.

As we have seen, chromating is used to treat many materials. However, the use of hexavalent chromium is currently under review as part of a risk assessment, and the European Commission has been asked to propose, as soon as possible, appropriate legislation to deal with any risks identified. Various avenues are proposed, including the use of non-toxic Cr ^III . The ozone used in UV treatment makes efficient ventilation systems mandatory.