WELDING FUME Dangers, risks and how to reduce them

The International Agency for Research on Cancer's re-classification of welding fume from welding as a Class 1 carcinogen has emphasized the very real health risks welders face on the job. Previously classified as "possibly carcinogenic to humans," welders should take every precaution possible to protect their health, even if the risk is not visible. Inhalation can cause serious lung complications and diseases, as well as damage the brain and nervous system. Common complications caused by exposure to welding fume include various cancers; emphysema; kidney failure; lead poisoning and anemia; Parkinson's Disease; metal fume fever; irritation of nose, sinus, throat and lungs; and asthma. Many toxic gases and fumes can have a cumulative effect on health without warning.