The Invisible Danger: Understanding the Risks of Welding Fumes and how the law has Changed

In the world of fabrication and metalworking construction, welding is an indispensable technique, joining metals to construct everything from world-class stadiums to a pressurised gas cylinder. However, amidst the glow of the arc and the crackle of sparks lies an almost invisible threat: welding fumes. These seemingly innocuous byproducts of welding can pose significant risks to the health and safety of welders and those in their vicinity. In this article, we delve into the dangers of welding fumes, shedding light on why awareness and precautionary measures are crucial in mitigating its harmful effects and how the recent law changes in Australia could affect you.

The Hidden Hazard:

Welding fumes consist of tiny, often microscopic, particles that are released during the welding process. These particles can contain various hazardous substances, depending on the metals being welded and the welding techniques employed. Common constituents of welding fumes include metal oxides, ozone, nitrogen oxides, and volatile organic compounds. While these fumes may not always be visible to the naked eye, their presence can have far-reaching consequences for both short-term and long-term health.

Immediate Health Effects:

Exposure to welding fumes can lead to a range of acute health effects. Short-term symptoms may include irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, coughing, nausea, and dizziness. Inhaling high concentrations of certain metals present in welding fumes, such as manganese, chromium, and nickel, can result in metal fume fever, characterised by flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, and muscle aches. While these symptoms typically subside once exposure ceases, repeated or prolonged exposure can exacerbate the risk of chronic health problems.

Long-Term Health Risks:

Perhaps even more concerning are the long-term health risks associated with regular exposure to welding fumes. Studies have linked prolonged exposure to certain welding fumes with an increased risk of respiratory diseases such as chronic bronchitis, asthma, and lung cancer. Additionally, welders may be at risk of developing neurological disorders due to the neurotoxic effects of metals like manganese, which can lead to symptoms resembling Parkinson's disease.

Protecting Against Harm:

Given the serious health risks posed by welding fumes, welders and employers must take proactive measures to minimize exposure. Ventilation systems, such as local exhaust ventilation and fume extraction systems, can help remove welding fumes from the work environment, reducing the concentration of airborne contaminants. Personal protective equipment (PPE), including respirators with appropriate filters, should be worn to prevent inhalation of fumes. Additionally, employers should implement engineering controls and work practices to minimize welding fume generation and ensure adequate training and education on the hazards of welding fumes for all personnel involved in welding operations.

UPDATED Welding Fume Workplace Exposure Standard

Australia has officially implemented a reduced Workplace Exposure Standard for Welding Fume. In September 2023, SafeWork Australia made the decision to decrease the Workplace Exposure Standard for Welding Fume from 5mg/m3 to 1mg/m3. Subsequently, in January 2024, Work Health and Safety Ministers supported the alteration of legislation across Australia. Compliance with the new lower limit is now mandatory for all workplaces. This revised standard applies to welders and individuals working in proximity to welding operations. Whether you are directly involved in welding, work alongside welders, are acquainted with welders, or employ them, it is imperative to familiarise yourself with the recent changes and adopt measures to mitigate exposure to welding fumes.

While welding is a fundamental process in many industries, it is essential to recognize and address the potential dangers associated with welding fumes. From acute respiratory irritation to chronic health conditions, the risks posed by exposure to welding fumes are significant and far-reaching. By implementing proper fume extraction, personal protective equipment, and workplace controls, we can safeguard the health and well-being of welders and protect against the invisible threat lurking in the haze of the welding arc. Awareness, education, and proactive measures are key to ensuring that the critical nature of welding, which holds together the metalworking industry, do not come at the cost of human health.