What are the hazards of welding smoke

Welding fume generally produces a large amount of welding aerosol, and its composition is inseparable from the composition of the welding rod used. Long-term pollution by welding fume is quite harmful to the human body. It generally causes respiratory mucosa, irritation, inflammation and other diseases. Of course, there are many other hazards. Let us briefly understand the hazards of welding fume!

The poisoning effect is mainly related to the composition of the welding rod used. For example, if high-manganese welding rod is used, the dust produced contains more manganese dioxide. Long-term exposure will cause chronic manganese poisoning, which mainly manifests in the nervous system. In the early stage, it is mainly characterized by neurasthenia syndrome and autonomic dysfunction, followed by obvious symptoms of extrapyramidal nerve damage.

The clinical manifestations of mild poisoning are drowsiness at the onset, followed by insomnia, headache, fatigue, and memory loss. Some patients experience irritability, nausea, increased salivation, numbness or pain in the limbs, gastrocnemius cramps at night, and weakness in the legs. As the symptoms of poisoning worsen, increased muscle tone, mild tremors, heavy legs, slower walking, easy falls, slow movements, and emotional indifference or impulsivity may occur.

Fluoride, ozone and nitrogen oxides in welding fumes all have certain irritating and toxic effects. Fluoride can cause damage to the upper respiratory tract mucosa, teeth and bones; nitrogen oxides are less irritating, but high concentrations of exposure can cause acute pulmonary edema and methemoglobinemia.

Possible occupational diseases: welder's pneumoconiosis.

Occupational exposure limit: PC-TWA is 4 mg/m3, the excess multiple is 2.

The harm of welding smoke is relatively large, and in severe cases it can lead to death. It also has a great impact on our lungs, so long-term exposure to welding smoke is very important.

Friends who are exposed to dust also need to pay special attention to their lungs. Try to wear a mask when working, which will be safer.