The toxic gases, smoke, radiation, and noise generated during welding operations may pose health risks to humans, such as respiratory system damage, skin and eye injuries, hearing loss, and neurological effects. Here are the specific hazards and protective suggestions:
一. Toxic gases and smoke hazards
1. Metal dust
●The metal oxides (such as manganese, chromium, nickel, etc.) and welding rod coating dust produced during welding may cause lung diseases and metal smoke fever (fever, cough) if inhaled for a long time. Some metals (such as hexavalent chromium) may even cause cancer.
2. Harmful gases
●Ozone (O₃): A highly irritating gas that causes throat swelling and pulmonary edema.
●Carbon monoxide (CO): Causes dizziness and confusion due to oxygen deficiency.
●Nitrogen oxides (NOx): Damages the respiratory tract and, in severe cases, leads to chemical pneumonia.
二. Physical injuries
1. Arc radiation
●Ultraviolet rays: Short-term exposure can cause photokeratitis (sensitivity to light, tearing) and damage to the cornea; skin develops redness and peeling.
●Infrared rays: Causes lens opacity (risk of cataracts).
2. High temperature and sparks
●The sparks from welding may cause skin burns, and the high-temperature environment increases the risk of heatstroke.
3. Noise
●Some welding processes (such as plasma cutting) can have noise levels of over 85 decibels, causing hearing loss and tinnitus from long-term exposure.
三. Nervous system and overall effects
1. Heavy metal poisoning
●Long-term exposure to welding materials containing lead and manganese may cause neurological damage, such as tremors and memory loss (manganese poisoning), and severe cases may lead to Parkinson-like symptoms.
2. Chronic diseases
●Long-term inhalation of smoke and dust may trigger asthma, chronic bronchitis, and increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Due to these many hazards, choosing a safe and efficient welding equipment becomes particularly important. After using the welding boom produced by Tai'an Xutai Machinery Co., Ltd., the wire feeder, cables, and air pipes are integrated onto the boom, allowing for movement in the air, eliminating the risk of welders tripping over pipelines and avoiding pipeline wear that may cause leakage and gas leakage accidents, significantly enhancing the safety of the working environment. By removing the smoke and harmful gases generated during welding through the dust removal function, the working environment is improved and the health of workers is protected.
