Welding Risk and Safety Precautions

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welding are caused by lead-based paints, solder, brass and bronze alloys, and protective coating on steel that keeps the metal from corrosion. "Welding fumes that have lead in their composition are the worst type of fumes to inhale."(OSHA) Lead fumes have been known to cause very serious health problems. Some of the many health risk are lead poisoning and breaking down of the central nervous system, kidneys, digestive system, and mental capacity. Although, lead fumes are really bad most welders who don't take all proper safety precautions only experience minor symptoms. Some of the minor symptoms include headaches, sore muscles and joints, to stomach cramps, and nausea.

Chromium for example is a common fume that a welder has to deal with. "Chromium comes from most stainless-steel and high-alloy materials, and welding rods."(OSHA) Chromium has symptoms just like all welding fumes but, these symptoms are not near as serious as lead fume symptoms. Chromium's only serious hazardous ...

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caused by protective coatings, paints, grease, and oils. Depending on the composition some of these fumes can be more deadly that lead. Some fumes that are rare and have minor side effects are molybdenum, beryllium, and cadmium oxides. Although these fumes can be dangerous most welders that take proper safety precautions don't experience the side effects associated with the fumes involved. There are many precautions involved with welding but not all of the safety precautions have to do with the fumes.

Before a welder should ever strike an arc he or she should prep the material being welded. He or she should remove all protective coatings such as paint by grinding the material to a ...

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