[Al Skierkiewicz]

Ted,
Just to be a little more clear, lead free solder may be required in specific regionals that are restricted by local codes but not all. However, machining (cutting, drilling, filing) lead used for counter weight or other robot parts is prohibited in the pits for obvious reasons. I have recommended that all regionals and lead robot inspectors enforce a rule that any lead used on the robot must be sealed in a conformal coating (paint or equivalent) so that contact with the material is minimal. In most cases we will turn to the UL Safety Inspectors for guidance on local codes.

From the 2009 Q&A
Lead-free solder
Posted by FRC386 at 01/08/2009 04:53:57 pm
Is lead-free solder required when building the robot? We note that the Safety Manual mentions the "NEW" requirement to use lead-free solder "at the event." The competition,however, is silent on the subject. Are all soldered joints going to be tested for the presence of lead? Additional discussion on the subject might be useful Re-soldering a lead-containing joint, or example, can be very messy and difficult. The old solder must be completely removed and the required heat when using the lead-free stuff is significantly higher.
Re: Lead-free solder
Posted by GDC at 01/12/2009 10:47:48 pm
No, it is not a required item for all soldered joints. Note that teams are urged to use their best engineering judgement and take all appropriate precautions whenever using any hazardous materials while in their home fabrication facilities.