These health effects may be both short- and long term. Welding fume exposure can lead to a wide variety of negative health symptoms, which include, but are not limited to, harm or irritation to the lungs, heart, kidneys and nervous system. Other harmful substances include lead oxides and asbestos. There is also cadmium which is used to coat the metals, which can cause lung disease, emphysema, and kidney failure. Iron oxide can also be contained in the welding fumes, which is very irritating to the respiratory system. It also causes “manganism,” which is closely related to Parkinson’s as it makes it difficult to move properly. Manganese fumes can result in the onset of Parkinson’s disease, a crippling disorder that affects movement and balance. Inhalation of the metal can cause serious damage to the brain and nervous system. Manganese containing fumes is one of the biggest risks encountered in welding smoke. Most of the hazardous substances are very fine, respirable particles of different types of metals, including: Chromium Welding fume hazards are a direct correlation of what can be inhaled through the welding process. Reproductive problems (delayed contraception and increased miscarriages) have also been discovered among welders, especially those working with stainless steel Other problems related to welding include: heart disease, skin diseases, gastritis, gastrodduodenitis, kidney damage, and ulcers Welders face an increased risk of lung cancer, cancer of the larynx and urinary tract.Ĭhronic respiratory problems including bronchitis, asthma, pneumonia, emphysema, pneumoconiosis, decreased lung capacity, silicosis, and siderosis Phosgene is another deadly gas that has been known to form. Additionally, some gases that are deadly at high levels, like nitrogen oxides and ozone, can form during welding. Some components of welding fumes, such as cadmium, can be fatal in a short time. Gastrointestinal effects have also been known to occur. It can cause coughing, wheezing, bronchitis, pulmonary edema, and pneumonitis. Welding smoke can irritate the eyes, nose, chest, and respiratory tract. Onset of symptoms may occur 4-12 hrs after exposure and include chills, thirst, fever, muscle ache, chest soreness, coughing, wheezing, fatigue, and nausea.
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