Questionnaire’s Pilot Test Set of questionnaire were drafted to seek information from International

Journal of Environmental Science and Development, Vol. 3, No. 2, April 2012 147 welders in term of; 1)
Welders basic knowledge of welding workplace hazard 2) Welders basic knowledge on health risk of
welding fumes 3) Welders desire to know their health risk in the current workplace 4) Persistent
symptom experience by the welders for the past 3 months

Awareness of occupational hazards and associated factors among welders

in Lideta Sub-City, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

 Sebsibe TadesseEmail author,

 Kassahun Bezabih,

 Bikes Destaw and

 Yalemzewod Assefa

Journal of Occupational Medicine and Toxicology201611:15

https://doi.org/10.1186/s12995-016-0105-x
© Tadesse et al. 2016
Received: 30 August 2015
Accepted: 31 March 2016
Published: 5 April 2016

Abstract

Background

Welding is a manufacturing industry where workers could be exposed to several

hazards. However, there is a dearth of studies clarifying the situation in Ethiopia. The
present study determined the level of awareness of occupational hazards and associated
factors among welding employees at Lideta Sub-City, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Methods

A work site-based cross-sectional study was conducted among welding employees Lideta
Sub-City, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia from April to May 2015. Stratified sampling followed by
simple random sampling techniques was used to select the study participants. A pilot
tested and structured questionnaire was used to collect data. Multivariable analyses
were employed to see the effect of explanatory variables on workers’ awareness of
occupational hazards.

Results
According to our criteria of awareness 86.5 % of surveyed workers were aware of
occupational hazards. A higher work experience, presence of work regulation, job
satisfaction, being married, being single, and a higher educational status were factors
significantly associated with workers’ awareness of occupational hazards.

Conclusion

This study revealed that the level of awareness of occupational hazards among welders
was high. However, this does not mean that there will be no need for further
strengthening of the safety measures as significant proportions of the workers still had
low awareness. Interventions to boost workers awareness of occupational hazards
should focus on areas, such as provision of safety trainings, promotion of safety
advocacy, and enforcement of appropriate workplace safety regulation.

Keywords

Hazard awarenessWeldingWorkplace factorsWorkplace safety

Background

The number of occupational accidents and diseases are increasing in developing

countries. It has been estimated that over 120 million occupational accidents with over
200,000 fatalities occur each year in these countries [1]. Subsaharan Africa appears to
have the greatest rate followed by Asia [2]. There were an estimated 42 million
occupational accidents with over 54,000 fatalities annually [3]. In Ethiopia there were an
estimated 4.3 million occupational accidents with over 5596 fatalities annually. This gave
accident and fatality rate of 16,426 and 21.5 per 100,000 workers, respectively [3].

Welding is one of the occupations that contribute to work-related accidents and diseases
in the context to developing countries [4]. The process remains the most common
method of joining metals today and is a part of the art of metal fabrication that involves
the building of metal structures by cutting, bending and joining. Polishing, painting or
coating of the metal pieces also goes along with the other processes [3, 4]. Welding
hazards such as the bright and blinding light of the welding arc, the hazardous
composition of the welding fumes, the sharp metal edges as well as the hot and flying
molten metal particles, fast moving machinery, noise, and vibration may lead to acute
and chronic health effects [5, 6]. The acute symptoms may consist of metal fume fever
(flu-like symptoms with alternating chills and high fever that last for a few days),
irritation of the eyes, nose, chest and respiratory tract causing cough, wheezing,
breathlessness, bronchitis, pulmonary edema, pneumonitis and gastrointestinal effects,
such as nausea, loss of appetite, vomiting, cramps and slow digestion [7, 8]. Chronic
health effects include increased risk of lung cancer, cancer of the larynx and urinary
tract, hypertension, varieties of respiratory problems, such as bronchitis, asthma,
pneumonia, emphysema, pneumoconiosis, decreased lung capacity, silicosis and
siderosis. Other chronic effects include heart and skin diseases, hearing loss, chronic
gastritis, gastro-duodenitis, ulcer of the stomach and small-intestine, kidney damage, and
damage to the reproductive system leading to reduction in sperm count and fecundity.
Musculoskeletal problems, such as back injuries, shoulder pain, tendonitis, reduced
muscle strength, carpal tunnel syndrome, white finger, and knee joint diseases are the
other health problems [9, 10, 11, 12]. Physical and accidental risks, like burns, cuts,
lacerations, and fall injuries are also common [4, 13].

Industrial safety and health problems are becoming major challenges in Ethiopia
because of low occupational hazards awareness, lack of workplace safety and health
policy, and inefficient safety management system. Due to these employers, workers and
the government are losing measurable costs. There is an information gap on
occupational hazards in welding industries in the country. Therefore, the aim of this
research is to assess the level of awareness of occupational hazards and associated
factors among welders at Lideta Sub-City, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Such information is
vital in understanding the extent of the problem and may be useful when designing
intervention strategies targeted at promoting and upholding good health and safety
standards in this important working group.

Methods

Study design, area and period

A work site-based cross-sectional study was conducted to assess level of awareness and
factors associated with occupational hazards among welders at Lideta Sub-City, Addis
Abba, the capital city of Ethiopia, from April to May 2015.

Participants and data collection

All employees who directly involved in the process of welding were included in the study
until the required sample size was obtained. Workers who were absent from work due to
different reasons during the time of data collection were excluded from the study. A pilot
tested and structured interview questionnaire was used to collect the data. Six trained
people with first degree in public health administered the questionnaire. The
questionnaire contained detailed information on socio-demographic, behavioral and
workplace factors that could have association with hazard awareness.

Sample size calculation

A single population proportion to size formula was used to determine the sample size of
the study. The total sample size was determined to be 567 by taking 95 % confidence
interval, 34.2 % expected proportion (P) [14], 4 % margin of error (W), 5 % non-response
rate. That is, Sample
size =(zα2)2∗P(1−P)W2=3.842∗0.2250.0016≈540=(zα2)2∗P(1−P)W2=3.842∗0.2250.0016≈540.
Adding 5 % non-response rate gives 567.
Sampling procedure

Stratified sampling followed by simple random sampling techniques was used to select
the study participants. That is, the industries were stratified into three scales, namely
large (employed ≥50 workers), medium (employed 10–49 workers) and small (<10
workers) [15]. Then, the total of 567 samples was proportionally allocated to each
industry. That is, 99 to large scale (N1 = 184), 195 to medium scale (N2 = 363), and 273 to
small scale (N3 = 507). The participants were drawn from the industries’ list of workers
using simple random sampling.

Data quality control

The training of data collectors and supervisors emphasized issues such as data collection
instrument, field methods, inclusion–exclusion criteria, and record keeping. The
investigators and supervisors coordinated the interview process, spot-checked and
reviewed the completed questionnaire on a daily basis to ensure the completeness and
consistency of the data collected. The interview questionnaire was pilot tested on 29
respondents in order to identify potential problem areas, unanticipated interpretations,
and cultural objections to any of the questions.

Data management and statistical analyses

Data entered and cleaned using Epi info version 3.5.1 statistical software were analyzed
on SPSS version 20. Frequency distribution, mean, standard deviation, and percentage,
were employed for most variables. All independent variables were fitted separately into
bivariate logistic model to evaluate the degree of association with hazard awareness.
Then, variables with a p-value < 0.20 were exported to multivariable logistic regression
model to control confounders. The odds ratio (OR) with a 95 % confidence interval (CI)
was used to test the statistical significance of variables.

Operational definitions
Awareness of occupational hazards

Summary score was calculated for the participants’ awareness of hazards that were
potentially related to their work based on ten questions. These were: can weld cause 1)
arc eye injury; 2) foreign body enter into eye; 3) breathlessness 4) chronic cough; 5)
metallic fume fever; 6) injuries to the body; 7) burns to the body; 8) explosion; 9) back
pain; 10) hearing impairment. The mean score for awareness of hazards was taken as a
cut-off point and those who scored above the mean were considered as having
awareness.

Job satisfaction

Was a self-reported felling of participants about their job as it was pleasurable for them.

Personal protective equipment (PPE)

Workers were observed for their utilization of specialized clothing or equipment for
protection against health and safety hazards at the time of interview. The observation
was made for about 5 min just before starting administration of the questionnaire.

Permanent employee

Any contract of employment between employee and employer concluded for an

indefinite period [16].

Temporary employee

Any employment contract between employee and employer made for definite period
[16].

Ethical considerations

The study protocol was reviewed and approved by the Institutional Review Board of the
University of Gondar via the Institute of Public Health. Permission was obtained from
Lideta Sub-City’s large, medium and small scale industry offices prior to data collection.
Study participants were interviewed after informed written consent was obtained. They
were also informed that their participation was voluntary and that they could withdraw
from the interview at any time without consequences. The participants were assured
that their responses would be treated confidentially through the use of strict coding
measures.

Results

Socio-demographic characteristics
A total of 555 employees completed the questionnaire making response rate 97.9 %. Of
whom 98.2 % were males. The majority, 85.9 %, of the employees belonged to the age
group of 30–53 years. Half, 48.8 %, of them were married. Regarding educational status
44.0 % attended secondary education (Table 1).
Table 1
Socio-demographic characteristics of welders at Lideta Sub-City, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia,
2015

Variables Number

Sex

Male  545

Female  10

Age (in years)

18–29  53

30–41  332

42–53  145

 ≥54  25

Marital Status

Single  263

Married  271

Divorced  21

Educational status

Primary  83

Secondary  244

Certificate and above  228

Workplace and behavioral characteristics

Three-fourths, 75.1 %, of the participants were permanent employees. About thirty eight
percent served for less than 5 to 9 years. Regarding hours spent on work 95.9 % of the
employees had worked for more than 40 h per week. Nearly three-fourths, 72.1 %, were
satisfied with their job. Sixty percent did not attend any kind of safety training. The
majority, 83.2 and 82.0 %, complained lack of work shift and safety supervision during
work, respectively. About 93.2 % used at least one kind of PPE during work. The majority,
91.8, 85.4 and 61.3 %, of them used goggle, coverall, and safety shoe, respectively. Fifty
eight percent drank alcohol followed by 44.0 % smoked cigarette and 39.5 % chewed khat
(Table 2).
Table 2
Workplace and behavioral characteristics of welders at Lideta Sub-City, Addis Ababa,
Ethiopia, 2015

Variables Number

Employment pattern

Permanent  417

Temporary  108

Work experience (in years)

 ≤5  151

5–9  208

10–14  99

 ≥15  97

Hours worked per week

 ≤40  23

  >40 532

Job satisfaction

Satisfied  400

Dissatisfied  155

Attended safety training

Yes  220

No  335

Safety supervision
Variables Number

Yes  99

No  456

Work shift

Yes  92

No  463

Used PPE

Yes  194

No  361

Type of PPE used

Goggle  509

Coverall  476

Safety shoe  340

Glove  200

Respirator  110

Helmet  30

Ear plug  24

Drink alcohol

Yes  322

No  233

Smoke cigarette

Yes  244

No  311

Chew khat
 Variables Number

Yes  219

No  336
Work-related health complaints

Two-thirds, 66.8 %, of the workers reported they experienced at least one health
complaint related to their work. The most common complaints were 99.6 % vision
problems, 94.2 % injuries to the body, and 54.1 % back pain (Table 3).
Table 3
Health complaints reported by welders at Lideta Sub-City, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 2015

Variables Number

Vision problems

Yes  553

No  2

Breathlessness

Yes  166

No  389

Chronic cough

Yes  12

No  543

Metallic fume fever

Yes  20

No  535

Injuries to the body

Yes  523

No  32

Back pain
 Variables Number

Yes  300

No  255

Hearing impairment

Yes  69

No  486
Participants’ awareness of occupational hazards

The majority, 86.5 %, of participants were aware of occupational hazards that might
occur during the welding process. The highest level of awareness was observed among
participants of 94.9 % large scale industries followed by 86.2 % medium scale and 83.5 %
small scale.

Factors associated with awareness of occupational hazards

Work experience, employment pattern, marital status, educational status, khat chewing,
cigarette smoking, job satisfaction, safety training, supervision, work regulation, and
health complaint showed significant association with awareness in the bivariate
analysis. However, only work experience, job satisfaction, work regulation, marital
status, and educational status remained significant in the multivariable logistic
regression model (Table 4).
Table 4
Factors associated with awareness of occupational hazards among welders in Lideta Sub-
City, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 2015

Variables Hazard awareness Crude OR (95 % CI)

Yes No

Work experience (in years)

  <5 118 33 1.0

5–9  179 29 1.7(0.1, 3.0)

10–14  91 8 3.2(1.4, 7.2)

 ≥15  92 5 5.1(1.9, 13.7)

Work regulation
 Variables Hazard awareness Crude OR (95 % CI)
Yes No

Yes  305 25 3.5(2.1, 5.8)

No  175 50 1.0

Job satisfaction

Yes  381 19 11.3(6.4, 20.0)

No  99 56 1.0

Marital status

Married  239 32 18.7(6.8, 51.6)

Single  235 28 21.0(7.5, 58.4)

Divorced  6 15 1.0

Educational status

Primary  62 21 1.0

Secondary  207 37 1.9(1.0, 3.5)

Certificate and above  211 17 4.2(2.1, 8.5)

Discussion

Welding is a manufacturing industry where workers could be exposed to several

hazards, like fumes and gases, dust, intense bright light, excessive noise, vibrations,
electricity, intense heat, unsecured gas cylinders, awkward work postures, and fast
moving machinery such as grinders. Proper awareness of these hazards is important to
design safety education programs, use the different protective devices, and train in
ergonomics and appropriate design of tools and machines to achieve greater efficiency of
both man and machine. In this study 86.5 % of the workers were observed to be aware of
the existence of different hazards related to their work. This finding is slightly different
from studies reported from Nigeria (77.9–91.6 %) [5, 17]. The discrepancies between
studies could be due to methodological differences, like study population, definitions of
hazard awareness, methods of data collection, and workplace conditions.

This study identified important predictors influencing workers awareness of hazards

related to their work. The odds of hazard awareness among employees who had longer
work experience were nearly six times higher compared to those who served for less
than five years. The possible explanation for this may be that those workers who served
longer could have good knowledge and skills on machines and tools in use and become
familiar to the work environment. In addition to this they might be exposed to different
safety training sessions that could improve their awareness.

In this and other studies workers hazard awareness was found to be significantly
associated with the presence of workplace safety regulations [13]. It is a fact that proper
implementation of workplace safety regulations could help to monitor workers behavior
and allow them complies with the safe procedures of their jobs. This, in proper
integration with other safety programs, is a good strategy to mitigate safety culture
impediments and to enhance workers awareness of occupational hazards.

Another important finding of this study was that the odds of hazard awareness among
employees who were satisfied in their jobs were more than nine times higher compared
to those who were not. An increasing number of studies have considered job satisfaction
as pervasive and influential factor in the prevention of workplace hazards [18]. This
could be linked to fact that when workers were satisfied in their jobs, they could
experience meaningfulness, greater responsibility, and better use of their knowledge and
skills in their jobs. Increased job satisfaction could lead to greater attention to safety
motivation, knowledge, and compliance [19].

Higher odds of hazard awareness were observed among married [20] and single workers
compared to those who were divorced in this study. This could be to the fact that those
who were divorced could be worried with unrelated issues and might not give an
attention towards their safety. This striking difference warrants further investigation on
whether this group may be less attentive towards personal safety.

Workers’ awareness of occupational hazards was dependent on their increased level of

educational attainment. This is in agreement with study conducted in Nigeria [5]. This
might be due to the fact that workers who attained a higher level of education could have
the tendency to change available information into mature stage which increased their
awareness of hazards.

Social desirability bias is a potential limitation in self-reported studies like this one, in
that employees might report more socially acceptable responses than their actual day to
day practice. As this is a cross-sectional study, the limitations that come with this type of
design need to be taken into consideration when interpreting the findings.
Conclusion

This study revealed that the level of awareness of occupational hazards among welders
was high.

However, this does not mean that there will be no need for further strengthening of the
safety measures as significant proportions of the workers still had low awareness.
Interventions to boost workers awareness of occupational hazards should focus on areas,
such as provision of safety trainings, promotion of safety advocacy, and enforcement of
appropriate workplace safety regulation.

Awareness of occupational hazards and use of safety measures among welders: a cross-
sectional study from eastern Nepal
Shyam Sundar Budhathoki, Suman Bahadur Singh, Reshu Agrawal Sagtani, Surya Raj Niraula,
and Paras Kumar Pokharel

Author information ► Article notes ► Copyright and License information ►

This article has been cited by other articles in PMC.

Abstract
Strengths and limitations of this study

 This study is based on occupational safety and health which is a neglected area of research in
Nepal.

 Study methodology: use of pretested questionnaire, scientific calculation of sample size, random
sampling and calculation of ORs.

 Makes an attempt to bridge the information gap between the awareness and use of personal
protective equipment (PPE) among welders in this part of the world.

 The study highlights the frequent use of sunglasses and cloth masks as PPE which are not
recommended.

 The sample size of the current study is small which is reflected by the width of CIs.

 The external validity of the study is limited in the context of urban cities which have more
workshops and more welders.

Go to:

Introduction
Occupational health aims at the promotion and maintenance of the highest degree of physical, mental and
social well-being of workers in all occupations. 1 Welding, a skilled profession, has been practiced since
the ancient times.2 Welders join and cut metal parts using a flame or an electric arc and other sources of
heat to melt and cut or to melt and fuse metal.3
Welding is a hazardous profession with a multiplicity of factors that can endanger the health of a welder,
such as heat, burns, radiation (ultraviolet, visible and infrared), noise, fumes, gases, electrocution;
uncomfortable postures involved in the work; high variability in the chemical composition of welding
fumes, which differs according to the workpiece, method employed and surrounding environment and the
routes through which these harmful agents enter the body. 4 Some of the effects of welding on health
include photokeratitis or arc eye, metal fume fever, decrease in lung function, pneumoconiosis, asthma,
photodermatitis and fertility abnormalities.5–11
Hazards arising from workplaces could impair the health and well-being of the workers; therefore, it is
necessary to anticipate, recognise, evaluate and control such hazards. 12 The use of personal protective
equipment (PPE) at all times is a good and safe practice by welders to protect from exposure to hazards
and injuries during welding or cutting.13
Occupational safety and health (OSH) is not an old science; however, the working conditions for workers
in general and welders in particular are unsatisfactory in Nepal. The fact that there is low awareness of
safety measures and low frequency of their regular utilisation is a matter of concern. This may be due to
various reasons like low level of education, lack of institutional training, age group structure and work
experience along with non-adaptation of regulatory measures by concerned authorities for safety
precautions.14 Welders in our study area do not have organised occupational health services, and to make
matters worse, there is a lack of awareness regarding the importance of occupational safety at the
workplace. The literature search showed that studies in Nepal have not tried to find out about the
awareness of protective measures and the factors which facilitate their use. Thus, the current study was
designed to assess awareness of occupational hazards and protective measures among welders working in
three districts of eastern Nepal. We also tried to find the factors associated with awareness of occupational
hazards and protective measures and the use of protective measures, and the possible relationship between
awareness and actual use of PPE. This study was envisioned to highlight the need for research in the area
of occupational health which is a neglected issue in our country.
Go to:

Materials and methods

A cross-sectional study was designed to be conducted among welders working in three districts of eastern
Nepal namely Jhapa, Morang and Sunsari from the period of July 2010 to July 2011.
According to the available literature,15 the most prevalent health effects were arc eye injuries, followed by
foreign bodies in the eyes, back/waist pain, metal fume fever, cuts/injuries from sharp metals, etc. Among
these, the least prevalent (37.7%) work-related complaint was cut injuries from sharp metals.
Thus, prevalence (p)=37.7%.
Compliment of prevalence (q)=100–37.7=62.3%.
Permissible error at 15%, L=15% of 37.7=5.655.
Inflating the sample size by 5%, we got the estimated sample size of 298. We planned to interview 300
grill workers, 100 from each of the three districts.
The average number of welders present per shop was 3 (results based on preliminary survey of 15
workshops in the study area). Taking three welders per shop, the number of workers from each district
required for the survey is298/3=100, that is, the number of workshops to be selected per district
is100/3=34 shops. The workshops were selected through simple random sampling from a list of metal
workshops provided by the Metal Workshops’ Association (GRILL BYABASAYI SANGH) using
computer-generated random numbers.
Welders working in workshops listed in the Metal Workshops’ Association were included in the study. A
workshop was visited with prior appointment from the workshop administration. The investigators
conducted individual interviews of 45–90 min with the welders using a semistructured questionnaire. The
questionnaire comprised open questions on age, level of education and duration of employment in years.
These variables were divided into categories on the basis of literature review to show their impact on
knowledge and use of PPE during analysis. Questions on awareness of hazards of welding, awareness of
PPE and use of PPE were structured. The welders were first asked to list the hazards of welding followed
by which, probing questions on specific hazards, light/radiation, welding fumes, sharp metals, electric
current, heat, noise, sparks, vibration and physical environment at work were asked with yes/no answers.
Similarly, for awareness and use of PPE, the welders were asked to list any PPE they were aware of and
they used. This was again followed by yes/no option for welding helmet/face shield, protective gloves,
welding goggles/eye shield, respirators/masks, sturdy footwear, apron, earmuffs and an open option for
any other equipment they wore for their protection. The welders were asked to show us the PPE they used
during welding.
Data collected were entered, edited and coded in a Microsoft excel sheet. The data were then exported to
the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) V.11.5 for analysis. Bivariate analysis for categorical
data was carried out using χ2 test. The strength of association was calculated using OR using Epi Info 7.
The probability of significance was set at 5%.
Informed consent was taken from the participants ensuring their confidentiality and anonymity.
Permission was sought from the welders to use their pictures for scientific publication.
Go to:

Results

Data were collected from a total of 300 welders who agreed to participate in the current study. Since,
permission was taken from the Metal Workshops’ Association and the authors have been working in this
particular area with other programmes of OSH, all the workers gave a positive response leading to a
response rate of 100%. All welders were men with a mean age of 31.29 years with an SD of 6.57 years.
Almost half (48%) of the welders were in the age group of 30–39 years. In total, 93% of the welders in
this study were literate. There were 16.3% of welders working for more than 10 years. The mean duration
of employment of the welders in years in this study was 6.94 years (not shown in table).
The study showed that 90.7% of welders were aware of one or more hazards of welding. Excessive
brightness (90.7%) was the most common hazard identified by the welders working in the area followed
by sharp metals (86.7%), heat (83.7%), physical environment (83.3%), electrical current (80.30%), noise
(75.70%), welding fumes (51.70%), sparks (44.3%) and vibration (17%) (not shown in table).
Table 1 shows that 90% of welders were aware of at least one kind of PPE while only 47.7% of welders
use at least one kind of PPE during work. While welding goggles/eye shields (86.7%) were the most
commonly reported PPE for use, the most commonly worn PPE was sturdy footwear (40.7%).

Table 1
Distribution of welders according to awareness and use of personal protective equipment (PPE) (n=300)

Sunglasses were considered protective and were used as a personal protective device by 74.3% of the 260
welders who reported being aware about welding goggles/eye shields as PPE. None of the welders used
welding masks, while cotton mask was used by 45% of the 300 welders who reported being aware of
welding masks. Sunglasses and cotton masks are however not included in the table, as they are not
recommended PPE for welding.
An illustration of the sunglasses and cotton mask used by the welders in Nepal is depicted in figure 1.

Figure 1
Welders at work using only sunglasses and cotton mask during welding in Nepal.

There was a positive association between level of education and awareness of hazards among the welders
(p<0.001). Compared with illiterate welders, welders with primary education were 7 times more likely to
be aware of the hazards of welding (OR=7.621, 95% CI 2.738 to 21.208), while the odds of awareness
regarding welding were 60 times higher among welders with secondary level of education than welders
who were illiterate (OR=60.5, 95% CI 14.517 to 252.132).
Duration of employment was seen to be negatively associated with the awareness of hazards among
welders (p=0.01), that is, the chances of welders being aware of hazards was 66% more for those welders
working for more than 5 years compared with those who had been working for 1–5 years as shown
in table 2.
Table 2
Factors associated with awareness of hazards among welders of eastern Nepal

Table 3 entails that awareness regarding the use of PPE was significantly associated with secondary level
of education (p=0.004). The welders who had received secondary level of education were about five times
(OR=4.93, 95% CI 1.50 to 16.23) more likely to be aware of PPE compared with illiterate welders.

Table 3
Factors associated with awareness of personal protective equipment (PPE) among welders of eastern
Nepal

There was a significant positive relation between reported use of PPE and secondary level of education
(p<0.001). The welders who reported using PPE at work were two times more likely to have had
secondary education or more (OR=2.167, 95% CI 1.865 to 5.430).
Interestingly, awareness regarding PPE did not find any significant association with duration of
employment; however, the use of PPE was seen to be more among welders who had been working for a
longer duration of time (p<0.001). The welders who had been working for 11 years or more were almost
four times more likely to use PPE at work compared with those who had a work experience of 1–5 years
(OR=3.98, 95% CI 1.99 to 7.97) as shown in table 4.

Table 4
Factors associated with the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) at work among welders of eastern
Nepal

Table 5 shows that the odds of using PPE during welding were twice as high among welders who were
aware of the health hazards associated with welding than those who were not (OR=2.52, 95% CI 1.09 to
5.81). It was also seen that welders who knew about PPE were five times more likely to use them during
welding compared with those who did not know about them (OR=5.13, 95% CI 2.34 to 11.26).

Table 5
Association between awareness regarding hazards and personal protective equipment (PPE) and use of
PPE at work

All welders learned their welding skills working as apprentices to experienced welders. They had not had
any formal training on welding, health and safety. Knowledge of hazards, PPE and use of PPE was
limited to self-learning on the job.
Go to:

Discussion

Almost half (48%) of the welders in our study were in the category of 30–39 years, similar to the finding
by Sabitu et al,14 where majority (44.5%) fell in the same category but it differs from the study by Isah
and Okojie15 in the same country where a higher proportion of welders (40.3%) were in the 20–29 years
category. Although 93% of welders in the study had some schooling, only 90% of them had knowledge of
one or more hazards of welding. These findings are similar to the study by Singh 16 on jute mill workers of
the same region.
The working population in this profession has a high turnover in this area with a very small number of
people working for a longer duration. However, studies in Nigeria by Isah and Okojie 15 show 74.8% of
welders with an experience of more than 10 years, including 24.7% of welders with an experience of
more than 21 years. Similarly, a Canadian study by El-Zein et al17 shows 81.8% of welders working for
10 years and more with 22.8% of welders aged 30 years and above and working for 20.33 years in this
profession. The studies by Isah and Okojie15 and Sabitu et al14 in Nigeria show that there are welders even
in the above-60 years category. The reasons for absence of welders above 49 years in our study could be
due to migration of skilled experienced welders to other areas for better wages and opportunities.
This profession is regarded as the most hazardous profession and not all welders are aware of all the
hazards.18 In our study, 90% of welders were aware of at least one hazard of welding. The comparison
with other studies showed inconsistent results. The study by Isah and Okojie 15 in Benin, Nigeria, showed
91.6% of welders being aware of one or more hazards of welding, while another study in Kaduna,
Nigeria, by Sabitu K et al14 showed 77.9% of welders aware of one or more hazards of welding.
Excessive brightness was the most frequently identified hazard by the welders in our study. Welding
fumes, which are a combination of highly toxic metals and their oxides, 19 were identified as a hazard by
51.7% of welders. There were also 9.3% of welders who were not aware of any specific hazard in their
work. They could not think of any harmful factor in welding.
In the study, 90.7% of welders were aware of welding goggles/eye shield to protect the eyes. The same
percentage of welders were aware of at least one PPE. Although 75% of welders identified noise as a
hazard at their workplace, only 19.7% were aware about earmuffs. The utilisation of at least one PPE
among welders was 47.7%, as compared with the study by Sabitu et al14 (34.2%) and the study by Isah
and Okojie15 (35.9%) in Nigeria. The most commonly used PPE were masks (45%), whereas the most
common PPE worn were welding goggles in both Nigerian studies; 60.9% in the study by Sabitu et
al14 and 35.9% in the study by Isah and Okojie.15 Welding goggles/face-shield use was seen among only
18% of welders in the current study.
It was found that a very high proportion of welders (74.3%) used sunglasses regularly at work. Sunglasses
are not among the recommended PPE20 to protect the eye from welding radiation. The reasons for
provision of sunglasses by the employer may be that they are cheap, easy available and comfortable. The
sunglasses used were also not certified for UV protection. Masks used by welders in this study are also
the commonly used cotton masks. These also do not meet the requirements 21 as respirators for use during
welding. It was also seen that more than half of the welders (52.3%) did not use any PPE during work.
Level of education had a significant relationship with awareness of hazard (p<0.05), awareness of PPE
(p<0.05) and use of PPE (p<0.05) in this study. This showed that with an increase in the level of
education among the population, awareness and safety practices also increased. Welders who have had a
higher level of education have the tendency to read news, get updates which increases their awareness of
hazards and PPE, and they tend to increase the practice of use of PPE as well. Sabitu et al14 also showed
that awareness increased significantly with an increase in education level.
It was found that welders who were employed for a longer duration reported being less aware of the
hazards of welding. It may be generally expected for the opposite to be true. The reason for such findings
in this study could be that welders working for a longer duration fail to recognise the exposure as
hazardous after being exposed to it for many years. However, this is just a possible explanation which
needs to be further explored. In contrast, in terms of using PPE at work, welders who have been working
for a longer duration report more use of PPE. It is seen that welders who have been working for a shorter
duration are more aware of the hazards but their use of PPE is lower. One possible reason for this may be
that younger people have a tendency of risk-taking behaviour. However, this also needs to be explored
further in future studies.
Awareness of hazard (p<0.05) and awareness of PPE (p<0.05) when compared with the use of PPE at
work showed significant relationship. Thus, the current study shows that when people are aware of
hazards and equipments required to protect against them, the tendency to use those equipments increases.
All welders in the study learned welding through apprenticeship under an experienced welder for a few
years. No welders in our study had any vocational training as compared with the findings of Sabitu et
al14that 8.5% of welders of Kaduna, Nigeria, went to a welding school. Learning by apprenticeship is a
common practice in welding here; data by Sabitu et al14 also show that more than 90% welders in Kaduna
learned welding by apprenticeship. There is no vocational training course or welding school so far for
learning welding skills in this area.
The welders were also not trained or oriented regarding hazards and safety measures at work including
basic first aid at work. This is also one of the reasons they are not aware of many hazards of their
profession and the protective measures that they should take.
There are a few limitations of this study. Although the sample size was calculated with a scientific
formula, the width of the CIs shows that the sample size is inadequate. A study with a larger sample size
might provide a more accurate estimate of the study variables. Generalisability of this study to the other
parts of Nepal, predominantly to urban cities, is limited as these cities have more workshops, more
welders and, therefore, can have different working conditions.
Welding is a hazardous profession which exposes workers to various kinds of physical and chemical
hazards in the absence of judicious and effective use of PPE. Unwanted exposure can lead to a variety of
disease conditions among the welders. The use of recommended PPE at all times minimises exposure to
these hazards. A lot of welders interviewed in the three districts of eastern Nepal were not aware of the
hazards. Many welders are still not aware of PPE and a much smaller proportion among them actually
uses PPE during welding. The mask and sunglasses being used are not the recommended PPE—
respirators and welding goggles should be used instead.
Welders in the study area are not trained and have acquired their welding skills while working on the job.
There is no culture of OSH among the welders and their employees. This study provides only a glance at
the actual problems and risks involved in this profession. There is a gap between the knowledge of
welders regarding awareness of hazards and PPE and the actual use of PPE at work by the same welders.
This gap needs to be further explored, so that appropriate interventions can be planned to address it. With
a high level of awareness present in this group, an intervention to increase the use of PPE is needed. OHS
needs to be promoted by labour organisations in Nepal and should be highlighted by public health
agencies which can make this a priority issue among the policy makers.
Welding - Fumes And Gases
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What are welding fumes?

Welding fumes are a complex mixture of metallic oxides, silicates and

fluorides. Fumes are formed when a metal is heated above its boiling point

and its vapours condense into very fine, particles (solid particulates). Welding

fumes generally contain particles from the electrode and the material being

welded.

Can the composition of welding fumes vary?

Yes, welding fumes contain oxides of the metals in the material being welded.

 Fluxes containing silica or fluoride produce amorphous silica, metallic

silicates and fluoride fumes.

 Fumes from mild steel welding contain mostly iron with small amounts
of additive metals (chromium, nickel, manganese, molybdenum,
vanadium, titanium, cobalt, copper etc.).

 Stainless steels have larger amounts of chromium or nickel in the fume

and lesser amounts of iron.

 Nickel alloys have much more nickel in the fume and very little iron.
How do coatings change the composition of welding fumes?

Vapours or fumes can come from coatings and residues on metal being

welded. Some ingredients in coatings can have toxic effects. These

ingredients include:

 metal working fluids, oils and rust inhibitors

 zinc on galvanized steel (vaporizes to produce zinc oxide fume)

 cadmium plating

 vapours from paints and solvents

 lead oxide primer paints

 some plastic coatings

Metal Coatings - A Source of Hazardous Fumes

How do I remove the coatings?

 Remove coatings from the weld area to minimize the fume. The removal
of coating will also improve weld quality.

 Use stripping products to remove coatings. Make sure to remove any

residues before welding.
  Use wet slurry vacuum removal techniques for removing very toxic
coatings.

 Do not grind coatings. Grinding dust may be toxic.

What are the factors that affect worker exposure to welding fumes?

 Type of welding process.

 Composition of welding rod.

 Filer metals and base metal used.

 Type of coatings present.

 Location (open area or confined space).

 Type of ventilation controls (mechanical or local).

 Work practices of welder (e.g. remove coatings, clean surfaces, stay

upwind when welding in open or outdoor).

What are welding gases?

Welding gases are gases used or produced during welding and cutting

processes like shielding gases or gases produced by the decomposition of

fluxes or from the interaction of ultraviolet light or high temperatures with

gases or vapours in the air.

What are examples of welding gases?

Gases used in welding and cutting processes include:

 shielding gases such as carbon dioxide, argon, helium, etc.

  fuel gases such as acetylene, propane, butane, etc.

 oxygen, used with fuel gases and also in small amounts in some
shielding gas mixtures

Gases produced from welding and cutting processes include:

 carbon dioxide from the decomposition of fluxes

 carbon monoxide from the breakdown of carbon dioxide shielding gas

in arc welding

 ozone from the interaction of electric arc with atmospheric oxygen

 nitrogen oxides from the heating of atmospheric oxygen and nitrogen

 hydrogen chloride and phosgene produced by the reaction between

ultraviolet light and the vapours from chlorinated hydrocarbon
degreasing solvents (e.g., trichloroethylene, TCE)

Gases are also produced from the thermal breakdown of coatings:

 Polyurethane coatings can produce hydrogen cyanide, formaldehyde,

carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, oxides of nitrogen, and isocyanate
vapours.

 Epoxy coatings can produce carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide.

 Vinyl paints can produce hydrogen chloride.

 Phosphate rust-inhibiting paints can release phosphine during welding

processes.

 Minimizing exposure to degreasing solvent vapours.

Table 1
Source and Health Effect of Welding Fumes
Fume Type Source Health Effect
Aluminum Aluminum component of some Respiratory irritant.
alloys, e.g., Inconels, copper, zinc,
steel, magnesium, brass and filler
materials.
Beryllium Hardening agent found in copper, "Metal Fume Fever." A carcinogen. Other chronic
magnesium, aluminum alloys and effects include damage to the respiratory tract.
electrical contacts.
Cadmium Stainless steel containing cadmium or Irritation of respiratory system, sore and dry throat,
Oxides plated materials, zinc alloy. chest pain and breathing difficulty. Chronic effects
include kidney damage and emphysema. Suspected
carcinogen.
Chromium Most stainless-steel and high-alloy Increased risk of lung cancer. Some individuals may
materials, welding rods. Also used as develop skin irritation. Some forms are carcinogens
plating material. (hexavalent chromium).
Copper Alloys such as Monel, brass, bronze. Acute effects include irritation of the eyes, nose and
Also some welding rods. throat, nausea and "Metal Fume Fever."
Fluorides Common electrode coating and flux Acute effect is irritation of the eyes, nose and throat.
material for both low- and high-alloy Long-term exposures may result in bone and joint
steels. problems. Chronic effects also include excess fluid in
the lungs.
Iron Oxides The major contaminant in all iron or Siderosis – a benign form of lung disease caused by
steel welding processes. particles deposited in the lungs. Acute symptoms
include irritation of the nose and lungs. Tends to
clear up when exposure stops.
Lead Solder, brass and bronze alloys, Chronic effects to nervous system, kidneys, digestive
primer/coating on steels. system and mental capacity. Can cause lead
poisoning.
Manganese Most welding processes, especially “Metal Fume Fever.” Chronic effects may include
high-tensile steels. central nervous system problems.
Molybdenum Steel alloys, iron, stainless steel, Acute effects are eye, nose and throat irritation, and
nickel alloys. shortness of breath.
Nickel Stainless steel, Inconel, Monel, Acute effect is irritation of the eyes, nose and throat.
Hastelloy and other high-alloy Increased cancer risk has been noted in occupations
materials, welding rods and plated other than welding. Also associated with dermatitis
steel. and lung problems.
Vanadium Some steel alloys, iron, stainless Acute effect is irritation of the eyes, skin and
steel, nickel alloys. respiratory tract. Chronic effects include bronchitis,
retinitis, fluid in the lungs and pneumonia.
Zinc Galvanized and painted metal. Metal Fume Fever.

Table 2
Source and Health Effect of Welding Gases
Gas Type Source Health Effect
Carbon Formed in the arc. Absorbed readily into the bloodstream, causing headaches,
Monoxide dizziness or muscular weakness. High concentrations may
result in unconsciousness and death
Hydrogen Decomposition of rod Irritating to the eyes and respiratory tract. Overexposure can
Fluoride coatings. cause lung, kidney, bone and liver damage. Chronic exposure
can result in chronic irritation of the nose, throat and bronchi.
Nitrogen Formed in the arc. Eye, nose and throat irritation in low concentrations.
Oxides Abnormal fluid in the lung and other serious effects at higher
concentrations. Chronic effects include lung problems such as
emphysema.
Oxygen Welding in confined spaces, Dizziness, mental confusion, asphyxiation and death.
Deficiency and air displacement by
shielding gas.
Ozone Formed in the welding arc, Acute effects include fluid in the lungs and hemorrhaging.
especially during plasma-arc, Very low concentrations (e.g., one part per million) cause
MIG and TIG processes. headaches and dryness of the eyes. Chronic effects include
significant changes in lung function.

Table 3
Source and Health Effect of Organic Vapours as a result of Welding
Gas Type Source Health Effect
Aldehydes (such as Metal coating with binders and Irritant to eyes and respiratory tract.
formaldehyde) pigments. Degreasing solvents
Diisocyanates Metal with polyurethane paint. Eye, nose and throat irritation. High
possibility of sensitization, producing
asthmatic or other allergic symptoms, even at
very low exposures.
Phosgene Metal with residual degreasing Severe irritant to eyes, nose and respiratory
solvents. (Phosgene is formed by system. Symptoms may be delayed.
reaction of the solvent and welding
radiation.)
Phosphine Metal coated with rust inhibitors. Irritant to eyes and respiratory system, can
(Phosphine is formed by reaction of damage kidneys and other organs.
the rust inhibitor with welding
radiation.)

Source: Tables 1 to 3 are from Work Safe Alberta's Welder's Guide to Hazards

of Welding Gases and Fumes, 2009

What are the hazards from welding gases?

Hazards from welding gases include:

 asphyxiation (lack of oxygen)

 fire or explosion
  toxicity

How can I prevent exposure to welding gases?

It is important to follow manufacturer's instructions, safety data sheets

(SDSs), and safety protocols to minimize the hazards of welding gases.

 Use substitute materials such as water-based cleaners or high flash

point solvents.

 Cover the degreaser baths or containers.

 Do not weld on surfaces that are still wet with a degreasing solvent.

 Do not weld near degreasing baths.

 Do not use chlorinated hydrocarbon degreasers.

 Have adequate ventilation in a workplace to prevent the displacement

or enrichment of oxygen and to prevent the accumulation of flammable
atmospheres.

 Use local exhaust ventilation systems to remove fume and gases from
the welder’s breathing zone.

 Wear appropriate respiratory protective equipment. The respiratory

protective equipment should not be used to replace the use of
mechanical ventilation.

Document last updated on October 3, 2016

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https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/safety_haz/welding/fumes.html

Welding - Overview of Types and Hazards

 CLOSE ALL
What is welding?

Welding is a joining process in which metals, or sometimes plastics, are

heated, melted and mixed to produce a joint with properties similar to those

of the materials being joined.

There are three main components needed to create a weld. These are:

 A heat source such as an electric arc, a flame, pressure, or friction.

The most common heat source is an electric arc. An arc is the physical
gap between the end of the electrode and the base metal. The physical
gap causes heat due to resistance of current flow and arc rays. The arc
melts the metals to create the joint.

 Shielding, which is the use of gas, or another substance to protect the

weld from air as the weld is being formed. Oxygen from the air makes
welds brittle and porous.

 Filler material, which is the material used to join to the two pieces
together.

Other processes that join metals together include:

 Brazing is the joining of metals with a filler metal having a melting

point above 450°C (842°F), but below the melting point of base metals.
The joined metals can be different metals. The joint is not as strong as
a welded joint.

 Soldering is the joining of metals using a filler metal with a melting

point below 450°C (842°F). The joined metals can be different metals.
The "filler"metals commonly used are lead-tin alloys. The joint is not as
strong as a welded joint or a brazed joint.
Metals can also be cut or separated by a flame or an electric arc, or removed
by "gouging" with an electric arc.
Is there more than one type of welding process?

There are over 70 different welding processes. The type of welding process

used is related to the specific application. The most common processes are:

 Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), also known as Manual Metal Arc
Welding, MMAW.

 Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW) or Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) Welding.

 Flux Cored Arc Welding (FCAW).

 Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW), also known as Metal Inert Gas (MIG)
Welding or hard wire welding.

 Plasma Arc Welding (PAW), Plasma Arc Cutting (PAC) and Gouging

 Submerged Arc Welding (SAW)

 Resistance Spot Welding (RSW) or spot welding.

 Air Carbon Arc Cutting (CAC-A) and Air Carbon Arc Gouging (CAG)

 Oxyfuel Gas Welding (OFG), Cutting and Heating (oxygen-acetylene

[oxyacetylene] (OAW) or oxygen-propane [oxy-propane] mixtures are the
most common fuel mixtures used).

What, in general, are the hazards associated with welding?

Health hazards associated with welding, cutting, and brazing operations

include exposures to metal fumes and to ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

Safety hazards associated with these processes include burns, eye damage,

electrical shock, cuts, and injury to toes and fingers.

Many of these hazards can be controlled with engineering controls, work

practices and personal protective equipment (PPE).

Document last updated on November 1, 2017

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Welding - Radiation and the Effects On Eyes and Skin

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What types of radiation are associated with welding?

Welding arcs give off radiation over a broad range of wavelengths - from 200

nm (nanometres) to 1,400 nm (or 0.2 to 1.4 µm, micometres). This includes

ultraviolet (UV) radiation (200 to 400 nm), visible light (400 to 700 nm), and

infrared (IR) radiation (700 to 1,400 nm).

UV-radiation is divided into three ranges - UV-A (315 to 400 nm), UV-B (280 to

315 nm) and UV-C (100 to 280 nm). UV-C and almost all UV-B are absorbed in

the cornea of the eye. UV-A passes through cornea and is absorbed in the

lens of the eye.

Some UV radiation, visible light, and IR radiation can reach the retina.

What are the symptoms of "Arc Eye"?

Certain types of UV radiation can produce an injury to the surface and

mucous membrane (conjunctiva) of the eye called "arc eye," "welders' eye" or

"arc flash." These names are common names for "conjunctivitis" - an

inflammation of the mucous membrane of the front of the eye. The symptoms

include:

 pain - ranging from a mild feeling of pressure in the eyes to intense

pain in severe instances

 tearing and reddening of the eye and membranes around the eye

 sensation of "sand in the eye" or abnormal sensitivity to light

 inability to look at light sources (photophobia)

The amount of time required to cause these effects depends on several

factors such as the intensity of the radiation, the distance from the welding
arc, the angle at which the radiation enters the eye, and type of eye

protection that the welder or bystander is using. However, exposure to just a

few seconds of intense UV light can cause arc eye. These symptoms may not

be felt until several hours after exposure.

Are there other possible effects to the eyes?

Long-term exposure to UV light can produce cataracts in some persons.

Visible light from welding processes is very bright and can overwhelm the

ability of the iris of the eye to close sufficiently and rapidly enough to limit

the brightness of the light reaching the retina. The result is that the light is

temporarily blinding and fatiguing to the eye.

A serious concern is the "blue light hazard" which is the temporary or

permanent scarring of the retina due to its sensitivity to blue light, around

440 nm wavelength. Blindness may result.

Exposure to infrared light can heat the lens of the eye and produce cataracts

over the long term.

What are the skin hazards associated with welding and radiation?

Welding arcs and flames emit intense visible, ultraviolet, and infrared

radiation.

 UV radiation in a welding arc will burn unprotected skin just like UV

radiation in sunlight. This is true for direct exposure to UV radiation as
well as radiation that is reflected from metal surfaces, walls, and
ceilings. Surface finishes and certain paint colours can reduce the
amount of UV radiation that is reflected.
  Long-term exposure to UV radiation can cause skin cancer.

 Infrared radiation and visible light normally have very little effect on
the skin.

Document last updated on April 9, 2001

Document confirmed current on March 1, 2011

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Welding - Personal Protective Equipment and Clothing

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What type of PPE is available when welding?

The chart below summarizes the types of personal protective equipment that

can be used when welding.

Welding - Personal Protective Equipment

Body Part Equipment Illustration Reason
Eyes and face Welding helmet, Protects from:
hand shield, or
goggles
 radiation

 flying particles, debris

 hot slag, sparks

 intense light

 irritation and chemical

burns

Wear fire resistant head

coverings under the helmet
where appropriate
Lungs Respirators Protects against:
(breathing)
 fumes and oxides

Exposed skin Fire/Flame Protects against:

(other than resistant
feet, hands, and clothing and
head) aprons  heat, fires

 burns

 radiation

Notes: pants should not have

cuffs, shirts should have flaps
over pockets or be taped closed
Ears - hearing Ear muffs, ear Protects against:
plugs
 noise

Use fire resistant ear muffs

where sparks or splatter may
enter the ear, rather than plugs.
Feet and hands Boots, gloves Protects against:

 electric shock

 heat

 burns

 fires

Why is eye protection important?

Eye injury can occur from the intense light and radiation that a welding arc

can produce. Eye injury can also occur from hot slag and other metal debris

that can fly off from the weld during cooling, chipping or grinding.
  Protect your eyes from welding light by wearing a welder's helmet
fitted with a filter shade that is suitable for the type of welding you are
doing.

 ALWAYS wear safety glasses with side shields or goggles when

chipping or grinding a work piece if you are not wearing a welding
helmet.

What type of eye and face protection is appropriate for my welding task?

The various types of eye protection are broken down into classes in the CSA

standard Z94.3-15 "Eye and face protectors”. Each class is designed for a

specific use. Eye and face protectors should have distinctive markings to

identify the manufacturer and their class. Classifications of common

protectors for welding operations are listed below:

 Class 2C – direct / non-ventilated goggles with non-ionizing radiation

protection

 Classes 3 and 4 – welding helmets and hand shields

 Class 6B – face shields for non-ionizing radiation protection

 Class 7B – respirator facepiece for non-ionizing radiation protection

The following operations require full face protection by using either a welding

helmet or a hand shield:

 arc welding,

 plasma arc cutting, gouging or welding, and

 air carbon arc cutting.

For gas cutting, welding, or brazing, the intensity of the light is much less

than from arc welding, cutting or gouging processes. Lighter shade filter

lenses can be used with goggles in place of a helmet.

More information can be found in the OSH Answers on Eye and Face

Protectors.

What are the various components of welding hand shields and helmets?

Hand shields or helmets provide eye protection by using an assembly of

components:

 Helmet shell - must be opaque to light and resistant to impact, heat

and electricity.

 Outer cover plate made of polycarbonate plastic which protects from

radiation, impact and scratches.

 Filter lens made of glass containing a filler which reduces the amount
of light passing through to the eyes. Filters are available in different
shade numbers ranging from 2 to 14. The higher the number, the darker
the filter and the less light passes through the lens.

 Clear retainer lens made of plastic prevents any broken pieces of the
filter lens from reaching the eye.

 Gasket made of heat insulating material between the cover lens and
the filter lens protects the lens from sudden heat changes which could
cause it to break. In some models the heat insulation is provided by the
frame mount instead of a separate gasket.
What else should you know about eye protection?

 Choose a tight fitting helmet to help reduce light reflection into the
helmet through the space between the shell and the head.

 Wear the helmet correctly. Do not use it as a hand shield.

 Protect the shade lens from impact and sudden temperature changes
that could cause it to crack.

 Use a cover lens to protect the filter shade lens. Replace the cover lens
if it gets scratched or hazy.

 Make sure to replace the gasket periodically if your helmet uses one.

 Replace the clear retaining lens to protect your eyes from broken
pieces.

 Clean lenses periodically.

  Discard pitted, cracked or damaged lenses.

What should you know about filter shade selection?

For Arc welding, the correct filter shade is selected according to the welding

process, wire diameter, and operating current. The table below gives the

correct shade numbers for different situations.

 ALWAYS use suggested shade numbers instead of minimum shade

numbers. The values below are from CSA Standard W117.2-12 Safety in
welding, cutting and allied processes. Other processes are listed in the
Standard.

 Provide additional task lighting that suits welders' needs.

 Use the same shade as the welder's if you are directly observing the
welding arc.
  Do not use gas welding goggles for arc welding.

 Do not substitute modified glasses, sunglasses, smoked plastic or

other materials for proper welding lenses.

The recommended shade numbers for oxygen cutting are shown in the table

below.

Can you wear contact lenses when welding?

The CSA Standard W117.2 states that contact lenses should not be worn by

welders and welding personnel because foreign bodies (objects) in the eye

can cause excessive irritation. Contact lenses do not provide protection from

ultraviolet radiation and flying objects. All workers in proximity to welding

procedures must wear appropriate eye protection according to the

circumstances. The OSH Answers document Contact Lenses at

Work discusses how dust particles or chemicals can irritate the eyes.

Note that in Canada, Prince Edward Island's Occupational Health and Safety

Act General Regulations Section 45.11 specifically bans wearing contact

lenses while welding.

What measures can protect skin from welding radiation?

  Wear tightly woven work-weight fabrics to keep UV radiation from
reaching your skin.

 Button up your shirt to protect the skin on the throat and neck.

 Wear long sleeves and pant legs.

 Cover your head with a fabric cap to protect the scalp from UV
radiation.

 Protect the back of your head by using a hood.

 Protect your face from UV radiation by wearing a tight-fitting, opaque

welder's helmet.

 Make sure that all fabric garments are resistant to spark, heat and
flame. Keep the fabrics clean and free of combustible materials that
could be ignited by a spark.

What should you know about using respirators when welding?

Respiratory protection is needed when ventilation is not sufficient to remove

welding fumes or when there is risk of oxygen deficiency. Select and use

respirators in compliance with applicable regulations. Seek expert advice,

conduct a hazard assessment, and initiate an appropriate respiratory

protection program.

For more information on selecting the appropriate respirators, see the OSH

Answers on Respirator Selection.

The process of selecting appropriate respiratory protection is also outlined in

CSA standard Z94.4 and ANSI (American National Standards Institute)

standard Z88.2 "Respiratory Protection".

What are some tips to know when using protective clothing?

DO

 Wear clothing made from heavyweight, tightly woven, 100% wool or

cotton to protect from UV radiation, hot metal, sparks and open flames.
Flame retardant treatments become less effective with repeated
laundering.

 Keep clothing clean and free of oils, greases and combustible

contaminants.

 Wear long-sleeved shirts with buttoned cuffs and a collar to protect the
neck. Dark colours prevent light reflection.

 Tape shirt pockets closed to avoid collecting sparks or hot metal or

keep them covered with flaps.

 Pant legs must not have cuffs and must cover the tops of the boots.
Cuffs can collect sparks.

 Repair all frayed edges, tears or holes in clothing.

 Wear high top boots fully laced to prevent sparks from entering into the
boots.

 Use fire-resistant boot protectors or spats strapped around the pant

legs and boot tops, to prevent sparks from bouncing in the top of the
boots.

 Remove all ignition sources such as matches and butane lighters from
pockets. Hot welding sparks may light the matches or ignite leaking
lighter fuel.
  Wear gauntlet-type cuff leather gloves or protective sleeves of similar
material, to protect wrists and forearms. Leather is a good electrical
insulator if kept dry.

 Using a shield can help keep any sparks spray away from your clothing.

 Wear leather aprons to protect your chest and lap from sparks when
standing or sitting.

 Wear layers of clothing. To prevent sweating, avoid overdressing in cold

weather. Sweaty clothes cause rapid heat loss. Leather welding jackets
are not very breathable and can make you sweat if you are
overdressed.

 Wear a fire-resistant skull cap or balaclava hood under your helmet to

protect your head from burns and UV radiation.

 Wear a welder's face shield to protect your face from radiation and
flying particles.

DO NOT

 Do not wear rings or other jewellery.

 Do not wear clothing made from synthetic or synthetic blends. The

synthetic fabric can burn vigorously, melt and produce bad skin burns.

Document last updated on September 18, 2017

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