Arc Welding Hazards
Arc welding generates extreme heat using an electric arc between an electrode and the base material. This method is widely used but presents serious risks.
Can You Get Electrocuted?
- Electric Shock: Welders are at risk of electric shock if they touch live electrical parts or improperly grounded equipment. Plasma welding systems typically operate at voltages and frequencies significantly higher than other arc welding methods. A severe shock can lead to serious injury or even death.
- Ultraviolet and Infrared Radiation: The electrical arc during welding produces intense UV and IR radiation that can cause burns on unprotected skin.
- UV radiation from an arc flash can cause photokeratitis (also known as "arc eye" or "welder’s flash"), a painful eye condition similar to a sunburn on the cornea. The severity of an arc flash and the time it will take to recover varies with the length of time a person was exposed to the arc. Prolonged exposure has been known to cause permanent damage to the retina of the eye.
- IR radiation penetrates deeper into the eye and may contribute to cataract formation by gradually heating and damaging the proteins in the eye's lens.
- Extremely High Temperatures: A plasma arc, which can reach temperatures up to 30,000°F (16,600°C), poses a serious risk of burns, fires, and thermal damage to nearby materials.
What is Arc Flash
- Toxic Fumes and Gases: Arc welding can produce dangerous fumes, especially when working with metals like stainless steel, which contains chromium. Prolonged exposure can result in lung diseases, including occupational asthma and lung cancer.
- Fire Hazards: Sparks and molten metal produced during welding can ignite flammable materials in the work area. Proper fire prevention measures, such as keeping fire extinguishers nearby, are crucial.
- Noise Exposure: High noise levels produced by plasma welding, often exceeding 100 decibels, can contribute to permanent hearing loss.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
2-3. What negative health effect may occur from prolonged exposure to UV arc flash radiation?
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