Analysis of welding hazards from an occupational safety perspective

Abstract

Hazards generated during welding work are risky to human health. Knowledge of occupational health and safety (OHS) while working with different welding processes is essential. Through theoretical and empirical methods, the effects of welding hazards faced by welders in industries and the safety precautions for different welding processes are explained in this article. The welding goggle with filter shade number 10 is recommended for eye protection, particularly in industry settings for heavy-duty welding work. Most research has proven that welding hazards can lead to diseases such as musculoskeletal disorders (MSD), cancer, auditory nerve failure, pulmonary oedema, lung damage, pulmonary disorders, dermatitis, renal dysfunction, and pneumoconiosis. Among the steps of the hazard control hierarchy, the “elimination” step offers an effective alternative to prevent major accidents. Controlling fumes is crucial and is discussed through ventilation and other fume extraction methods. Forced circulation ventilation (FCV) provides better performance in fume control than natural circulation ventilation (NCV) if the height from the welding room roof is less than 5 m. Air velocity should be maintained at or below 1 m/s. Adhering to international standards like OSHA, ISO, HSE Act, and ASME is beneficial to avoid or reduce hazards.