Welding, as a profession, is perhaps one of the most dangerous trades out there. It’s not only about having the right training and protective gear but, equipping themselves with welding smoke eaters. Welders are also exposed to harmful fumes in their work environment on almost a daily basis. Here are reasons why this smoke is dangerous.
What is welding smoke?
Welding smoke is a form of particulate matter which consists of microscopic solids and liquid particles suspended in the air. The type of welding will determine the composition of the smoke, but it can consist of metal oxides, inorganic compounds like lead or cadmium, and organic compounds like acetaldehyde or formaldehyde. Smoke is a by-product of welding that should be managed properly to avoid any negative health effects on the welder and anyone in the immediate vicinity.
What makes welding smoke dangerous?
The dangers of welding smoke are that it contains harmful chemicals. Welding makes extremely fine dust which is usually made up of iron oxides and alkali metals. These particles are small and get into the lungs, and can also settle in the nose and throat.
The chemicals in the welding smoke can cause health problems. The most common are respiratory ones such as a cough, frequent mucus production, or difficulty breathing. They can also cause throat irritation, lung cancer, and other types of cancer.
How to protect yourself from welding smoke?
Welding smoke eaters are often overlooked by welders. However, they are an indispensable piece of equipment in the day-to-day life of a welder. They take a lot of the dangerous fumes from welding and help to neutralize them. This can be lifesaving for welders exposed to high amounts of fumes.
A welding smoke eater is a device that helps to protect welders from harmful fumes that come from welding, especially when the welders are using flux-cored wire. They reduce the number of toxic substances in the air, making it easier for welders to breathe. Welding smoke eaters are used to protect the welder from any airborne fumes and dust.
Also, If you work with welding, it’s important to wear an appropriate mask to prevent any ill effects from the smoke. The American Welding Society recommends a mask for protection from welding smoke that has an organic vapor and acid gas cartridge. The mask must not have a filter, as these can hold contaminants and make them even more dangerous.
Closing thoughts
Welding smoke is one of the most hazardous and harmful fumes that can negatively affect human health. If you are a professional welder, it’s important to take precautions to protect yourself against harmful fumes by learning how to properly use a welding smoke eater or another type of equipment that helps eliminate the dangers of welding smoke.
Author’s Bio: This article is based on welding smoke. The writer of this article is an avid online writer.
