Finding a job can be a difficult task. This is especially true of late, as rates of unemployment€"and underemployment€"continue to go through the roof. Fortunately, many technical fields, such as that of welding, continue to offer a wealth of opportunities for individuals who are experienced in the craft. Though job options for welders may abound, the risks associated with this type of job are also quite abundant. Understanding the basics behind welding fumes, the risks associated with the inhalation of these fumes, and how workers can protect themselves from the fumes is essential for individuals who are thinking about working in this challenging career field.
What are Welding Fumes
As with other dangerous toxins, having a solid understanding of the basics behind welding fumes is crucial for individuals who are working in the field. During welding, two pieces of metal are joined together through the use of intense heat, which caused the individual parts of melt and eventually reconnect. According to the American Society of Safety Engineers, the chemical processes that occur during this activity results in the release of a number of solid, small compounds into the air€"which create a €plume.€ The plume, which is more commonly referred to as welding fumes, contain a number of chemicals including aluminum, lead, and manganese. In addition, various gases are produced by the welding process, including carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxide, and even small amounts of ozone.
Risks of Welding Fumes
So what, exactly, are the risks of inhaling the fumes produced during welding? Do they really pose that many health risks? According to most experts, the answer to this question is a staggering yes€"inhaling welding fumes can not only be quite dangerous, but is some causes even toxic. Research shows that welders who regularly inhale the fumes produced by their craft can be at risk for the development of encephalopathy, mental confusion, paralysis, chest pain, spastic gait and other work related injuries. In addition, current research suggests that the inhalation of welding fumes may also be to blame for more chronic health conditions, such as Parkinson's disease. As research into the link between welding fume inhalation and chronic health diseases continue, more risks are likely to be identified.
Protection from Welding Fumes
Obviously, avoiding toxic welding fumes is essential for individuals who hope to avoid the serious health conditions described above. Fortunately, there are a number of ways in which welders can ensure their safety, yet still remain active in their chosen career fields. According to most experts, the use of high-grade respirators may be the most effective way to avoid the inhalation of toxic welding fumes€"though working in an area that offers quality built-in ventilation is also important. Welders who work indoors should have access to hoods, roof vents, and commercial grade exhaust systems, while those who operate outdoors are required to have access to a fan to distribute the plume. Consultation with an expert in the field of employee safety may be beneficial for those who want to ensure optimal results while working as a professional welder.
What are Welding Fumes
As with other dangerous toxins, having a solid understanding of the basics behind welding fumes is crucial for individuals who are working in the field. During welding, two pieces of metal are joined together through the use of intense heat, which caused the individual parts of melt and eventually reconnect. According to the American Society of Safety Engineers, the chemical processes that occur during this activity results in the release of a number of solid, small compounds into the air€"which create a €plume.€ The plume, which is more commonly referred to as welding fumes, contain a number of chemicals including aluminum, lead, and manganese. In addition, various gases are produced by the welding process, including carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxide, and even small amounts of ozone.
Risks of Welding Fumes
So what, exactly, are the risks of inhaling the fumes produced during welding? Do they really pose that many health risks? According to most experts, the answer to this question is a staggering yes€"inhaling welding fumes can not only be quite dangerous, but is some causes even toxic. Research shows that welders who regularly inhale the fumes produced by their craft can be at risk for the development of encephalopathy, mental confusion, paralysis, chest pain, spastic gait and other work related injuries. In addition, current research suggests that the inhalation of welding fumes may also be to blame for more chronic health conditions, such as Parkinson's disease. As research into the link between welding fume inhalation and chronic health diseases continue, more risks are likely to be identified.
Protection from Welding Fumes
Obviously, avoiding toxic welding fumes is essential for individuals who hope to avoid the serious health conditions described above. Fortunately, there are a number of ways in which welders can ensure their safety, yet still remain active in their chosen career fields. According to most experts, the use of high-grade respirators may be the most effective way to avoid the inhalation of toxic welding fumes€"though working in an area that offers quality built-in ventilation is also important. Welders who work indoors should have access to hoods, roof vents, and commercial grade exhaust systems, while those who operate outdoors are required to have access to a fan to distribute the plume. Consultation with an expert in the field of employee safety may be beneficial for those who want to ensure optimal results while working as a professional welder.