Top 10 Chemical Exposures
8. Nitrogen Oxides
Nitrogen oxides are a group of gases, primarily nitric oxide and nitrogen dioxide, that are generated during high-temperature welding and cutting, especially in processes like arc welding, plasma cutting, or oxy-fuel welding. These gases form when atmospheric nitrogen and oxygen are heated intensely — typical in arc environments.
Nitrogen dioxide is particularly hazardous. It is a deep lung irritant, meaning it penetrates into the lower respiratory tract. Even brief exposure to high concentrations can cause pulmonary edema — a life-threatening condition where fluid fills the lungs. Long-term or repeated exposure can lead to bronchiolitis obliterans ("popcorn lung") and chronic bronchitis. Symptoms might not appear immediately and may worsen hours after exposure.
9. Carbon Monoxide
Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that can be produced during combustion processes used in welding — especially oxy-fuel welding, gas metal arc welding, and in any environment where incomplete combustion of carbon-based gases (like acetylene or propane) occurs.
It binds to hemoglobin in the blood much more readily than oxygen, preventing oxygen delivery to body tissues. This can cause symptoms like headache, dizziness, confusion, nausea, and fatigue, progressing to loss of consciousness or death with continued exposure.
10. Zinc Oxide
Zinc oxide is released as fine particulate fumes during welding or cutting of galvanized steel, which is steel coated with a layer of zinc to prevent corrosion. When zinc is heated above its boiling point, it vaporizes and then condenses into fine, white zinc oxide fumes.
Inhalation of these fumes causes a condition known as metal fume fever, a short-term but intense illness that mimics flu symptoms. Affected workers may experience fever, chills, nausea, headache, muscle aches, dry throat, and fatigue. Repeated exposure without protection can cause chronic respiratory irritation, and in rare cases, lung damage.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
7-10. Which welding-produced gas can cause metal fume fever when inhaled?
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