For this reason, any use of chlorinated solvents should be well away from welding operations or any operation in which ultraviolet radiation or intense heat is generated. Welding and cutting may produce significant amounts of carbon monoxide. In addition, welding operations that use carbon dioxide as the inert gas shield may produce hazardous concentrations of carbon monoxide in poorly ventilated areas. Carbon monoxide is odorless, colorless and tasteless and cannot be readily detected by the senses. Common symptoms of overexposure include pounding of the heart, a dull headache, flashes before the eyes, dizziness, ringing in the ears, and nausea.
Ozone is a highly active form of oxygen and can cause great irritation to all mucous membranes.
Symptoms of ozone exposure include headache, chest pain, and dryness of the upper respiratory tract. Both nitrogen dioxide and ozone are thought to have long-term effects on the lungs. Even greater quantities are formed if the shielding gas contains nitrogen. This gas is irritating to the eyes, nose and throat but dangerous concentrations can be inhaled without any immediate discomfort. Skin exposure to UV can result in severe burns, in many cases without prior warning.