Health and Safety Risks in Welding Activities

摘要

Welders and workers applying allied processes are subject of a great variety of exposures that may put various health hazards on them. The major long term health hazards may be brought about by fumes and gases and their various constituents. Due to the great variety of materials (mainly: metal alloys) and of the processes, health hazards may vary widely. The contribution will focus on these health hazards, corresponding with different types of welding and exposures, possible health effects may be: chronic bronchitis, chronic or acute asthma-like symptoms, toxic lung edema with danger of life, loss of vital capacity (breathing volume), arc welders' lung with lung fibrosis as well as a slightly increased lung cancer risk. Currently discussed are possible health hazards due to the ultrafine structure of welding fume particles. Other hazards are from optical radiation (ultraviolet; visible light, such as "blue light hazard", infrared), electric current, ergonomic factors such as uncomfortable/forced posture with a risk of musculoskeletal diseases. Commission VIII is keeping a close eye on all hazards and possible health effects and on the current scientific knowledge; it has provided several reviews, state of the art papers, checklists and other documents that may help the welding community to keep within safe working conditions.