Safety instructions for magnets
Here we have listed a comprehensive overview of the most important safety instructions for neodymium magnets (also called NdFeB magnets). These magnets are significantly stronger than ordinary ferrite magnets and can cause injuries or property damage.
General Safety Rules
- Never underestimate neodymium magnets: even small ones generate very high forces.
- Move magnets slowly and with control.
- When bringing magnets together, do not place fingers between them.
- Store large magnets only with spacers or protective casings.
- Keep children and pets away.
Electrical Conductivity
Magnets are made of metal and conduct electricity
- Children might try to insert magnets into an electrical outlet and suffer an electric shock.
Pinching and Injury Hazard (Pinched Fingers)
Strong magnets attract abruptly.
Dangers:
- Bruises
- Skin lacerations
- Bone injuries with large magnets
Safety measures:
- Wear gloves
- Handle magnets individually
- Maintain a distance of several centimeters
- Separate large magnets only with aids
Splintering and Breakage Hazard
Neodymium magnets are hard, but brittle.
Upon impact, they can:
- create sharp splinters
- cause pieces to fly off at high speed
Therefore:
- Wear safety glasses
- Do not let magnets snap together
- Dispose of damaged magnets
Danger to Children
Swallowed magnets are life-threatening.
If multiple magnets are swallowed:
- they can pinch intestinal walls
- cause internal bleeding
- necessitate emergency surgery
Rule:
- Not suitable for children
- Contact emergency services immediately if swallowed
Electronic Devices and Data Carriers
Neodymium magnets can damage electronics.
Keep distance from:
- Smartphones
- Laptops
- Hard drives
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- USB hard drives
- Speakers
- Sensors
Also possible:
- Data loss
- Defective displays
- Sensor malfunctions
Medical Implants
Especially important with:
- Pacemakers
- Implanted defibrillators
- Insulin pumps
- Hearing implants
Magnetic fields can disrupt functions.
Recommendation:
- At least 30 cm distance
- Warn affected individuals
Heat and Fire
Neodymium magnets lose their magnetic force when heated.
Typical limits:
- Standard types often critical from approx. 80 °C
Furthermore:
- Grinding dust is flammable
- Magnet powder can ignite
Do not:
- Drill
- Grind
- Saw without special equipment
Avoid Mechanical Processing
Neodymium magnets:
- are brittle
- contain flammable metal dust
During processing, there is a risk of:
- Flying splinters
- Fire
- Destruction of the magnet
Process only with professional equipment.
Corrosion and Coating
Neodymium magnets corrode easily.
Coatings:
- Nickel
- Zinc
- Epoxy resin
Damaged coatings:
- promote rust
- reduce durability
Do not use permanently in water unless specifically sealed.
Transport and Storage
When storing:
- Use spacers
- Store dry
- Keep separate from metal parts
When shipping:
- Shield magnetic fields
- Observe air cargo regulations
Strong magnetic fields can:
- Interfere with measuring devices
- Cause transport problems
Allergies
Many neodymium magnets are nickel-plated.
Possible:
- Nickel allergies
- Skin irritations
Then:
- Wear gloves
- Use plastic-coated magnets
Workplace Safety
In workshops or laboratories:
- Secure metal tools
- Remove loose steel parts
- Mark safety distances
Large magnets can suddenly attract tools.
Disposal
Neodymium magnets:
- do not incinerate
- do not dispose of large industrial magnets with household waste
Small quantities:
- as metal waste, depending on local regulations
Carefully package damaged magnets.
Particularly Dangerous Situations
Very strong magnets can:
- accelerate heavy metal parts
- trigger chain reactions
- cause significant injuries with large designs
Use industrial magnets only with appropriate training.
Summary of the Most Important Rules
- Protect fingers
- Wear safety glasses
- Keep away from children
- Keep distance from electronics
- Keep distance from pacemakers
- Do not process or heat
- Store and transport carefully
- Dispose of damaged magnets