Welding, cutting, and welding with brass are dangerous activities that represent a unique combination of risks for both safety and health to employees in many industries. Protect employees when they perform welding operations depends on understanding the dangers involved and appropriate measures to control them. Control of welding related hazards includes avoid eye injuries, wear respiratory protection, work area ventilation, wear protective clothing, and count With safe equipment to use.

Welding is a method that joins metal parts using heat, pressure or both. There are more than 80 different types of processes associated with welding. Some of the types more Common for welding include: arc welding, which includes welding with a rod (Shielded Metal Arc Welding - SMAW, for its name and acronym in English), arc welding in the atmosphere of shielding gases (Metal Inter Gas - MIG, by name and acronym in English), and with tungsten arc (Tungsten Inert Gas - TIG, by name and acronym in English), plasma arc welding (Plasma Arc Welding-PAW, by name and acronym in English), and submerged arc welding (SAW, by name and acronym in English). Other welding processes can use oxyacetylene gas, electric current, lasers, rays of electrons, friction, ultrasound, chemical reactions, heat of combustible gases, and robots.

Cutting consists of heating the metal with a flame and directing a stream of pure oxygen along the line to be cut. Welding with brass involves a filler metal or an alloy (a combination of metals), which has a melting point lower than that of the metal parts to be joined. The fillers, such as lead and cadmium, can Be very toxic. Related Health Hazards with welding Gases and Vapors The "smoke" of welding is a mixture of particles very fine (vapors) and gases. Many of the substances in the smoke welding, such as chrome, nickel, arsenic, asbestos, manganese, silica, beryllium, cadmium, nitrogen oxides, phosgene, acrolein, fluorine compounds, carbon monoxide, Cobalt, copper, lead, ozone, selenium, and zinc can be extremely toxic

Generally, vapors and gases come from:

• The base material that is being welded or the material of padding that is used
• The coatings and paints on the metal being welded, or the coatings that cover the electrode
• Protection gases supplied by the cylinders
• Chemical reactions that are the result of the action of light ultraviolet arc, and heat
• The process and the materials used
• Air pollutants, such as the vapors of cleaners and degreasers. The health effects caused by exposures to welding vary widely because vapors can contain many different substances known to beforehand that they are harmful, depending on the factors listed above. Individual components of welding smoke can affect many parts of the body, including the lungs, heart, kidneys and the Central Nervous System. Welders who smoke can have a higher risk of health problems than welders who do not smoke, although all welders are at risk. Exposure to welding smoke may have effects on Short and long term in health.

• Exposure to metallic gases (such as zinc, magnesium, copper, and copper oxide) can cause fever of metal fumes. The symptoms of fever metal fumes can occur 4 to 12 hours later of exposed state, and includes chills, thirst, fever, muscle aches, chest pain, cough, difficulty breathe, tiredness, nausea, and a metallic taste in the mouth.
• Welding smoke can also irritate the eyes, the nose, chest, and airways, and cause cough, shortness of breath, shortness of breath, bronchitis, pulmonary edema (fluid in the lungs) and pneumonitis (inflammation of the lungs). Gastrointestinal effects, such as nausea, loss of appetite, vomiting, cramps, and slow digestion have also been associated with welding.
• Some components of welding vapors, such Like cadmium, they can be fatal in no time. The secondary gases that are fired by the process of welding can also be extremely dangerous. For example, the ultraviolet radiation that is goodbye at the time of welding reacts with oxygen and nitrogen in the air to form ozone and oxides of nitrogen. These gases are fatal in high doses, and they can cause nose and throat irritation, as well as serious diseases of the lungs

• The ultraviolet rays that are fired at the moment welding can also react with solvents of chlorinated hydrocarbons to form phosgene gas. Even A very small amount of phosgene can be deadly. The first symptoms of exposure, such as dizziness, chills, and cough usually takes five to six hours to Appear. Arc welding should never be done inside 200 feet of solvents or grease removal equipment

Long Term Health Effects

• Studies have shown that welders have a increased risk of lung cancer, and possibly cancer of the larynx and urinary tract. These results do not they are amazing in view of the large amounts of toxic substances in welding smoke, including to cancer causing agents such as cadmium, nickel, beryllium, chromium and arsenic.
• Welders can also experience a variety of chronic respiratory problems, including bronchitis, asthma, pneumonia, emphysema, pneumoconiosis (refers to dust related diseases), decreased lung capacity, silicosis caused by exposure to silica), and siderosis, which is a dust-related disease caused by dust from iron oxide in the lungs.
• Other health problems that appear to be related With welding include: heart disease, skin diseases, hearing loss, gastritis chronic (inflammation of the stomach), gastroduodenitis (Inflammation of the stomach and small intestine), and ulcers of the stomach and small intestine. The welders who are exposed to heavy metals, such as chromium and Nickel have also experienced kidney damage.

• Welding also represents reproductive hazards for welders. Studies have shown that welding work has had adverse effects on the sperm quality, conception, and pregnancies between Welders or their spouses. Possible causes include exposure to metals such as aluminum, chromium, nickel, cadmium, iron, manganese and copper; as well as gases as nitrous and ozone; hot; and ionizing radiation used to inspect the joints.

Welders who perform welding work or cut on covered surfaces with asbestos insulation are at risk of getting asbestosis, lung cancer, mesothelioma and other diseases related to asbestos Employees must be trained and given you must provide the appropriate protective equipment before weld near material containing asbestos.

Hot

• Sparks and intense heat when welding can cause burns The contact with hot slag, metal chips, sparks and hot electrodes can cause burns and eye injuries.

• Excessive exposure to heat can result in stress by heat or heat stroke. Welders must be aware of symptoms, such as tiredness, dizziness, loss of appetite, nausea, abdominal pain, and irritability. Ventilation, protectors, breaks and drinking plenty of cold water will protect workers from the dangers related to heat. Visible Light, Ultraviolet and Infrared Radiation
• The intense light associated with arc welding can cause damage to the retina of the eye while infrared radiation can damage the cornea and result in the formation of waterfalls.
• The invisible ultraviolet (UV) light of the arc can cause “eye arc ”or“ soldering iron flash, ”even until after a brief exposition (less than a minute). The symptoms arch eye usually occur after many hours of being exposed to ultraviolet light, and include a feeling of sand or rubbish in the eye, blurred vision, severe pain, watery eyes, burning, and headache.
• The arc can be reflected from materials around and Burn the co-workers who are working nearby. Approximately half of the flash injuries of the welder occur to companions who are not welding. Welders and cutters who work continuously near ultraviolet radiation without adequate protection They may suffer permanent damage to the eyes.

• Exposure to ultraviolet light can also cause skin burns similar to burns caused by the sun, and increase the risk of skin cancer employee.

Electron and Laser Beam Welding

• Laser welding uses a concentrated beam of light to achieve very precise welds. The lightning itself or the Lightning reflex can cause blindness if it hits the eyes.
• Electron beam welding uses a concentrated electron beam to produce welds from High precision and deep penetration and X-rays are Produced as a secondary product. The exhibition prolonged to x-rays could cause cancer and Short term exposure to high levels can cause radiation sickness (symptoms include nausea, weakness, hair loss, skin burns or decreased function of organs). High voltages Necessary also represent an electrical hazard.

Noise

• Exposure to loud noises may damage permanently listening to welders. Noise it also causes stress and increased blood pressure, and It can contribute to heart disease. Work in noisy environments for long periods of time It can make workers feel tired, nervous and irritable
• The OSHA Noise Standard, Code 29 of the Federal Regulations (29 Code of Federal Regulations - CFR, by name and acronym in English) 1910.95, requires have your employer evaluate noise levels to Determine employee exposure. If the average of the noise level exceeds 85 decibels by more 8 hours, employers must provide employees a free ear protection option and annual hearing exams. Skeletal muscle injuries Welders have a high incidence of complaints musculoskeletal, including back injuries, shoulder pain, tendonitis, muscle strength reduction, carpal tunnel syndrome, Raynaud's syndrome (also known as white finger syndrome) and diseases of the joints in the knees. The postures when working (especially welding above the head, vibrations, and lift heavy things) can all contribute to these conditions

These problems can be prevented by applying the following correct techniques for lifting objects:

• Do not work in one position for long periods of weather
• Keep the work at a comfortable height
• Use a footrest when standing for long periods of time
• Store tools and materials in places that are easy to access
• Minimize the vibrations.

Electrical hazards

Although welding usually uses low voltages, it still there is a danger of electric shock. The conditions environmental, such as wet areas or confined spaces can Increase the chances of a download. The falls and others accidents can result from even a small discharge; hurt brain and death can result from a large discharge. Dry gloves should always be used to protect against of electric shocks. The welder must also wear shoes with rubber sole and you should use an insulating layer, such as a dry board or rubber mat, to protect on surfaces They can conduct electricity. The part being welded and the frame of all machines Electrical must be grounded. The isolation in the electrode holder and electrical wires must be kept dry And in good condition. The electrodes should not be changed without wear gloves, with wet gloves, or while standing on wet floors or surfaces that are grounded. Fire and Explosions The intense heat and sparks that are produced when welding, or the welding flame, can cause fires or explosions if there are flammable or combustible materials in the area. Welding or cutting should be carried out only in free areas of combustible materials, such as garbage, wood, paper, textiles, plastics, chemicals, and flammable powders, liquids and gases (Vapors can spread several hundred feet). Those that cannot be removed should be covered with a material adjusted to be fire resistant. The doors, windows, cracks and other openings must be covered.

Trips and Falls

To prevent trips and falls, keep the areas of free welding of equipment, machines, cables and hoses, and use lines or guardrails. Reduced or Limited Spaces It is dangerous to weld in any small or restricted area with limited access with little or no air movement or ventilation. Adequate ventilation is essential to work in reduced or limited spaces. Dangerous concentrations of Toxic fumes and gases can quickly accumulate in Small spaces. Unconsciousness or death due to suffocation It can result quickly as welding processes They can deplete or displace oxygen in the air. High concentrations of some fumes and gases can also be very explosive

The following regulations apply:

• All employees who could enter areas dangerous on a regular basis or in emergencies must be trained on the procedures of rescue, autonomous breathing equipment, the use of safety equipment, and appropriate procedures to enter and leave a limited or limited space.
• The employee who is within the confined space or Limited must be equipped with a safety harness, a life rope, and appropriate protective clothing staff, including autonomous breathing equipment (never use an air purifying respirator).

• Gas cylinders and welding power sources must be located in a safe position outside the reduced or limited space.
• A trained employee must be located outside the reduced or limited space to monitor and must be Equip with the appropriate tools (including a fire extinguisher and personal protective equipment), to help or rescue the employee inside the reduced or limited space, if necessary. Yes the monitoring employee notices any indication of intoxication or decreased employee care that is inside, the employee must be removed from the area immediately.
• All confined or limited spaces must be examined before entering for toxic, flammable gases or explosives and for the oxygen level. Might be necessary continuous air monitoring during welding. No employee may enter a confined space or limited where the percentage of oxygen is less than 19.5 percent, unless the employee is equipped with a respirator with air supply.
• Never use oxygen for ventilation.
• Use continuous mechanical ventilation and a respirator whenever you are welding or making thermal cuts in a reduced or limited space.

• All pipes, ducts, and power lines that are connected to space, but not necessary for operation, they must be disconnected or turned off. All valves and switches must be closed and labeled so that they cannot be accidentally turned on.
• All torches and other equipment that is supplied by gas or oxygen that are not necessary should be removed of the reduced space.

Compressed Gases

Welding with gas and cutting with a torch uses a combustible gas and oxygen to produce heat to weld. For welding with high pressure gas, both oxygen and combustible gas (acetylene, hydrogen, propane) that are supplied to the torch are stored in high pressure cylinders. The use of compressed gas cylinders represents dangers Special for the welder. Acetylene is very explosive. It should only be used with adequate ventilation and with a leak detection program. Oxygen alone not It will burn or explode. However, in high concentrations of oxygen, however, many materials (even those that they are difficult to burn in the air, such as normal dust, fat, or oil) will burn or explode easily.

Follow these rules when using compressed gases:

• All cylinders must have covers or regulators.

• Only pressure regulators designed for the gas being used must be put in the cylinders.
• Compressed gas cylinders, all valves pressure arresters, and all lines must be checked before and during welding operations.
• The torches must be kept in good condition and clean regularly.
• Hoses and accessories should be kept in good condition. conditions and checked regularly.
• Cylinders should be stored vertically so Do not fall.
• The oxygen and fuel cylinders must be stored apart, far from heat and sunlight, and only in one area dry, well ventilated, and fire resistant minus 20 feet away from flammable materials, such as paint, oil or solvents.
• 746/5000 Consider the detonations and flashbacks of the flame which are usually caused by defective equipment or It is operated incorrectly. If a setback of flame, close the torch valves, first the oxygen and then the combustible gas; close the valves of the oxygen and fuel gas cylinders; cool the torch with water, and check the equipment for damage, particularly in the mouthpiece. To prevent flashback, use the correct ignition procedure; make sure the torch have spring loaded single-way valves to prevent a recoil of gas through the hoses; wear the correct pressure and the correct nozzle size for the job; and keep the equipment in good condition.

• Close the cylinder valves at the end of the job. Put the protective caps in place and release the pressure on regulators and hoses before moving or Store the cylinders.

How to Reduce Hazards Related to the welder

Before starting a welding job, it is important Identify the dangers of that particular job. The dangers depend on the type of welding, the materials (such as metals, bases, coatings, electrodes), and conditions environmental, outdoors or in a limited or limited space. Ask for Safety Data Sheets - SDS, by name and acronym in English) to identify materials hazardous that are used in welding and cutting products, and the vapors that can be generated. Employees must Know what they are going to weld before starting. Some vapors, such as those that are fired when welding a Cadmidated surface, can be fatal in a short time. After identifying the hazard (s), you can implement the control methods that are appropriate. Engineering Controls and Work Practices Use less hazardous materials, such as silver welding without cadmium and asbestos-free electrodes, gloves, and handles. Ventilation should be used to remove vapors and gases harmful. Local exhaust ventilation, which removes Vapors and gases at the point of origin, is the most cash. This can be provided by an enclosure. partial, such as a ventilated work table, or with bells located as close as possible to the point of Weld. Ventilation systems must be cleaned and Maintain them regularly. General ventilation use roof vents, open doors and windows, ceiling fans, or floor fans to move the air throughout the work area. This is not as efficient as local exhaust ventilation, and could simply disperse the chemicals around the work area. But nevertheless, general ventilation can help complement the local exhaust ventilation.

For arc welding processes with shielding gases, the Local leaks can be provided by an extraction gun, which can reduce up to 70 per percent that the worker is exposed to the emissions of the welding. Bells and ducts should be constructed of materials that Be fire resistant. Use barriers to protect other people in the area of Work of light, heat, and welding arc splashes. Welding booths should be painted with a matte finish that does not reflect ultraviolet light, such as the finishes that They contain titanium dioxide or zinc oxide. Acoustic barriers between the worker and the noise source They can be used to reduce noise levels. Other possibility would be to completely enclose the machinery or the process.

Modify the process or follow safe work practices to that the hazards be eliminated:

• Do not weld parts that have been painted or coated. Of being possible, remove all coating from surfaces before of welding.
• Grind the parts instead of cutting them with the air bow.
• Use the sub-arc process to minimize light and Vapors created by a visible arc.
• When welding or cutting, position yourself so that your head does not Be in the vapors.
• Remove all flammable or combustible materials that be close before lighting an arc or flame.
• Make sure all equipment is maintained appropriate, for example, replace the insulation and hoses that are worn.
• Welding areas should be kept free of equipment and machines that could cause trips or falls.
• You can minimize the production of vapors from welding using the minimum acceptable amperage and positioning the electrode perpendicularly and so as close as possible to the work surface.
• Arc welding should never perform within 200 feet away from solvents or equipment for degrease.

All electron beam welding processes must be enclosed and protected with lead or other materials suitable to prevent exposure to X-rays. All doors, hatches, and other openings must have seals appropriate and should be inspected periodically to avoid x-ray leaks. Operators must use plates to detect accidental exposure to radiation. The tall ones Required voltages also represent an electrical hazard.

Personal protection equipment

Personal Protective Equipment Equipment - PPE, by name and acronym in English) always should be used together with, but never instead of, controls engineering and safe work practices. Eye protection should be used for all welding operations to protect the eyes from intense light, heat, ultraviolet light, and sparks that fly through the air. For the Better protection, wear masks or helmets and goggles. To prevent slag or particles from entering the eyes When the mask is removed, tilt your head forward and keep your eyes closed When welding works by laser beam, special eye protection should be worn, and care must be taken with any surface that is reflective because both the original ray and the one that is Reflected are extremely dangerous. Welding helmets, goggles, or other protectors for the eyes must have filter plates or special lenses to employees who are exposed to welding processes or cut to the arc and when they perform autogenous welding (oxyfuel gas welding, by its name in English). The Subsection Q of OSHA's 29 CFR 1910 requires that workers who perform welding or cutting jobs are protected with lenses or filter plates.

Protective clothing to be worn during welding (for welders and workers who are nearby) include:

• fire resistant long cuff gloves
• boots with steel toe
• skin apron
• mask
• fire resistant overalls
• safety glasses
• helmets
• chaps or high boots.

Protective clothing must be made of wool, which is not light easily, or with treated cotton fabrics special. Sleeves and necks must be fastened and Pants and shirts must not have cuffs. Layers and helmets They may also be required. Employees must wear welding helmets, with lenses appropriate filters, and no plates held in the hand. To the weld above the head, additional protection should be worn, such as fire-resistant layers for shoulders, aprons, head layers, chaps and overalls. Caps for ears should be worn when there is a possibility that sparks or hot splashes enter the ears. Because welders work with highly materials toxic, lockers must be provided, for their name in English) to store work clothes apart from normal clothes. Ear protectors should be worn while noisy jobs are performed, such as archery of air and when grinding. Respirators must be work specific and must be adjusted, cleaned, stored and maintained in accordance with the standard for OSHA respirators.

In addition, workers must receive training on how to wear respirators properly The Institute National for Occupational Safety and Health (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health - NIOSH, for its name and acronym in English) recommends that respirators are used every time a carcinogen (agent that cause cancer) be present in any concentration detectable, or if any other condition could present an immediate danger to life or health. A team of self-contained breathing should be used when welding in spaces reduced or limited because welding could reduce the concentration of oxygen in the air. Air monitoring Routine air monitoring should be performed to determine noise levels and hazardous materials in the welding area Medical monitoring Because welding emissions are so dangerous, NIOSH recommends that all workers who could be exposed to welding processes receive exams doctors at least once a year. The doctor should examine the lungs, the skin the eyes, the heart, and the hearing, lead to Take any other exam that is appropriate. Training All welders must receive training on the use equipment and process insurance, safe work practices and emergency procedures OSHA requirements OSHA has standards that cover many aspects of the welding work, including safety when welding, welding in confined or limited spaces, handling of compressed gases, fire safety and with electricity, ventilation, protective equipment, and employee training. Insist on safe conditions working before welding