Brake Cleaner Can Kill You!

[inVERt'D]

I use brake cleaner all the time to clean parts before I weld them. It doesn't seem as nasty as carburetor cleaner (e.g. Berryman's B-12), which has made me sick before (while rebuilding a carburetor). Once recently something hit my nose while welding that was really nasty; my nasal linings were sore for the rest of the day. I just stumbled across this posted at another forum and I thought I'd share. It's not just brake cleaner that's dangerous. Read the following:


http://www.brewracingframes.com/id75.htm

[Guest]

Cr@p! That stuff can be bad news!

[JJsKJ]

Pretty sure it will only create phosgene w/ Chlorinated brake cleaners and flames so use only non-chlorinated versions but still be careful breathing the stuff and espcially around flames or high heat as it is flammable. I use brake cleaner to clean a lot of parts on the car but I make sure to use it outside or w/ a fan to my back as the stuff stinks and can irritate.

Checked my Non-C labels and no mention of phosgene, etc. Also be careful w/ flames and R12 refrigerant as it too can become phosgene, not sure about other refrigerants, maybe someone else knows?

[Roger]

It seems uner normal use, it should be okay. Just not around open flame or welding. Pretty scary stuff. I use the crap all the time.

I now have a good topic for my next Safety Meeting at work. Thanks for posting this.

[WallyCJ7]

WOW thanks for posting that. I will pass it on.

[Willard]

Reminds me of the time I mixed Clorox bleach and Comet together.... on purpose. THAT was terrible. Fortunately I was in the Army at the time and had my gas mask so I clean up the mess. =)

[Dezertdog]

Good 2 know...
I use brake cleaner all the time.
Scott