Oxyacetylene gas used
in welding is an explosive and the flame burns at an intense heat – over 6,000
degrees Fahrenheit (3,300 degrees Celsius). Oxy-welding may just be one the most hazardous of all workplace activities,
according to the Accident Prevention Corporation of the American Society of
Safety Engineers (Canadian Occupational
Safety, May 30, 2013). As I was watching the construction of a building,
and the welders, I wondered just how dangerous this activity was.
The temperature of the
heat emanating from oxy-welding is equivalent to looking at the sun. Burning of
soft tissues, such as eyes and skin, can be caused by the ultraviolet radiation
produced by arc welding – a technique in which an electric arc is created
between an electrode and the base metal to generate heat. Anyone looking at the
arc, and not wearing a protective shield, can absorb the full spectrum of the
UV radiation into their eyes, therefore buring them on the inside. This type of
injury is called welder’s flash or arc eye. It is sometimes painful, but
usually temporary, unless long term unprotected activity continues.
Sparks can also cause
burns. During cutting, grinding and welding, sparks can inflict burns to any
part of the body that is not covered or protected, such as face, hands, and
feet.
Welders have also been
injured or killed by explosions or fires while working on pressurized
containers, such as fuel tanks. Back and neck problems are also common.
However, the American
Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE) said that toxic fumes from some welding
practices are the one of the most hazardous aspects of welding. A plume of
minute particles by the molten metals and by gases released during some welding
processes can be harmful. One effect of exposure to fumes is metal fume fever,
which is a like the flu. It is temporary, and usually clears within 24-48
hours.
However, it depends on
the fuel used. Cadmium, for example, can kill. Manganese in the fumes is
thought to be the cause of Parkinson’s syndrome or manganese-induced
Parkinsonism. The symptoms are decreased coordination, difficulty walking, loss
of balance, shaking, and slurred speech. Other long-term effects of welding
fumes include heart disease, kidney damage, stomach problems, lead poisoning,
lung and throat cancer, and neurological problems. The ASSE said that many
welders suffer respiratory problems and lung infections.
ASSE said that the
short-term effects of inhaling welding fumes include nausea, coughing,
bronchitis, inflammation of the lungs, encephalopathy, shortness of breath, and
eye, ear, nose, throat, and chest irritation.
Metals found in
welding dust and fumes include aluminum, nickel, manganese, lead, chromium,
copper, iron oxide, and cadmium oxides. Gases produced by welding fumes include
carbon monoxide, fluorine, nitrogen oxide, and ozone.
There have been
several research papers on the health effects of welding. For example, the
University of Alberta’s School of Public Health examined whether welding
affects women’s health differently to men’s health. The Women’s Health in
Apprenticeship Trades – Metalworkers and Electricians (WHAT-ME) study looked at
all work-related health conditions.
Other research is
looking at the connection between welding and breathing problems, such as
wheezing and rhinitis.
Due to the health
hazards welders wear a range of protective gear, from shields, glasses,
clothing, boots, nose protectors, gloves, and helmets.
Comments
Post a Comment