Size distribution and chemical properties of welding fumes of inhalable particles (original) (raw)

Welding is a critical and important operation in various industries. The operation produces poisonous fumes and gases that can cause respiratory problems towelding technicians. National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health estimates that at least 2 million workers arerecruited as welders. This makes it necessary to preserve and protect the well-being of researchers by measuring the level of fumes inhaled by researchers. A descriptive-cross sectional study was carried out in welding workshops within the Nahav and Hamadan City of Iran. In order to measure the density of welding fumes in respiratory spaces, NIOSH 7300 and 7048 were followed. The collected data were compared with NIOSH and ACGIH standards and the results were presentedin tables and diagrams. As shown by the results, out of 15 specimens taken from the respiratory system of subjects, 3 (20%) met the standards and 12 (80%) exceeded the standards. This result indicated an imperative need to find alternative processes, provide ventilation systems for research shops and welding spots, equip the workers with respiratory masks, carry out routine checkups so that their exposure to welding fumes can be reduced.