Arc Welding Hazards

Accident Hazards

Injuries due to sparks or hot metal falling into folds of rolled up sleeves and pant- cuffs or work boots.

Electric shock from excess moisture (e.g. perspiration or wet conditions) and contact with metal parts which are "electrically hot".

Fire or explosion due to extreme temperatures (up to 10,000F) from welding sparks coming into contact with flammable materials (e.g. coatings of metals, gasoline, oil, paint, thinner, wood, cardboard, paper, acetylene, hydrogen, etc.)

Falls during work on ladders, above ground, and in confined spaces.

Eye and face injuries from flying particles, molten metal, liquid chemicals, acids or caustic liquids, or chemical gasses or vapors.

Physical Hazards

Exposure to high noise levels from arc welding equipment, power sources and processes.

Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation resulting in skin burns and skin cancer. "Welder's flash"(brief exposure to UV radiation) may result in temporary swelling and fluid excretion of the eye or temporary blindness.

Cataracts from chronic exposure to UV radiation.

Irritation of lungs due to heat and UV radiation.

Chemical Hazards

Exposure to metal fumes causing metal fume fever (temporary illness similar to flu) from zinc fumes.

Bronchitis and lung fibrosis due to mineral dusts or fumes.

Potential exposure to manganese, cadmium, shielding bases (argon, helium and carbon dioxide) chromium, nickel, steel and other metals.

Pulmonary granulomatous disease due to chronic beryllium exposure.

Biological Hazards

No significant biological exposures expected.

Ergonomic, psychosocial and organizational factors

Back pain and other musculoskeletal problems resulting from fatigue due to standing for long periods, sprains due to lifting of heavy machinery or metal products and cramping due to working in vertical, horizontal or overhead positions.

Wrist, elbow or shoulder joint pain due to repetitive motion while feeding material.