The Safety Hazards of Welding

Welding can create dangerous fumes when working with different types of metals.Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images

Welders are exposed to a number of safety hazards while on the job. These can be from gas fumes, fire and excessive equipment noise. The injuries they sustain can be either temporary or permanent. The worker can help prevent injuries by being aware of the various hazards and how to prevent accidents from occurring.

Welding Fumes

Fumes that are created by welding have a variety of metals within their composition. When inhaled, these fumes create a dangerous health concern for workers. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that fumes with manganese in them can have effects on the human neurological system. When it builds up in the body, it can cause damage to a variety of organs. These include the kidneys, liver, lungs and the central nervous system. Workers exposed to it in large enough amounts can have some of the following symptoms: tight muscles, shaking, reduced ability to balance and move slower. Other metals, such as lead and iron, in fumes can create problems as well.

Fire can also be a safety concern while welding. The welding area can be very unsafe when the air has a large concentration of dust. Having chemicals nearby that are easily ignited can also increase the danger. Gas can leak from faulty or partially open valves and from hoses, creating a risk of fire as well. The welder has to be careful to shut off all tanks that contain gases, keep the work area free of flammable materials and inspect equipment for possible leaks.

Welders can also suffer damage to their hearing on-the-job. Equipment can cause hearing loss when they emit noise levels over 115 decibels. Injury to the ear can occur when sparks or airborne pieces of metal enter the ear canal and damage the eardrum. This can cause temporary or even permanent deafness.

When welding, the worker makes considerable use of their shoulders and stay in one position for long periods of time. Overuse of the shoulder can cause pain, especially when attempting to rotate the arm. Joint pain can also be caused from staying in a stooping or related position for extended periods. This can occur in the knees where pressure from kneeling on a hard surface to weld see references 3.