Illnesses
Welders are exposed to a variety of hazardous substances during welding operations, including metal fumes, toxic gases, ultraviolet (UV) radiation, and intense heat.
Dangers of Welding Fumes
Prolonged or repeated exposure to these harmful elements can lead to the development of multiple health issues affecting the respiratory system, skin, eyes, nervous system, and cardiovascular health. The following are some of the common illnesses and medical conditions that welders may experience as a result of their work environment and exposure.
- Metal Fume Fever: A temporary but intense flu-like illness caused by inhaling metal oxide fumes, particularly zinc oxide from galvanized steel. Symptoms include fever, chills, muscle aches, nausea, and headaches, typically appearing several hours after exposure.
- Mesothelioma: Mesothelioma is a rare but aggressive form of cancer usually caused by inhaling asbestos fibers. It often develops decades after exposure and is very difficult to treat, making it one of the deadliest conditions associated with welding. It is the illness most likely to result in death to the welder.
- Chronic Bronchitis and Asthma: Long-term exposure to welding fumes and gases (such as ozone and nitrogen oxides) can inflame the airways, leading to chronic coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Asthma may be aggravated or triggered by certain metal fumes.
- Pneumonia (Welder’s Lung): Caused by inhaling fine iron oxide particles and other contaminants, welders are at higher risk of developing infectious and non-infectious pneumonia. In severe cases, it can lead to respiratory failure if left untreated.
- Lung Cancer: Prolonged exposure to hazardous substances such as hexavalent chromium, nickel compounds, and asbestos increases the risk of lung cancer. Welders working with stainless steel or coated materials are particularly vulnerable.
- Manganism: A serious neurological disorder resulting from chronic exposure to manganese fumes. It causes symptoms similar to Parkinson's disease, including tremors, muscle rigidity, slow movement, and difficulty walking.
- Skin and Eye Damage: Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from welding arcs can cause "arc eye" or photokeratitis, a painful eye condition similar to a sunburn on the cornea. UV exposure can also cause skin burns, premature aging, and increase skin cancer risk without proper protective gear.
- Cardiovascular Issues: Studies have linked chronic inhalation of toxic fumes to increased risks of hypertension, heart disease, and other cardiovascular problems, likely due to systemic inflammation and oxidative stress.
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2-9. Which illness is most to cause the death of a welder?
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