Welding tasks can present various risks, both to those who perform it and those standing in the vicinity. This is why it is vital that you are familiar with the risks and dangers posed by soldering. That way, you will know the necessary protective measures to take, which we will look at in a moment.
Electrical shock: This is the most severe danger of welding and can lead to serious injury and even death, either from direct discharge or from a fall from height after a discharge. You also run the risk of secondary electrical shock if you touch the welding circuit or electrode at the same time as you touch the metal you are soldering.
Noise risks: You will be exposed to loud and prolonged noise while welding. Any noise above 85 dB (decibels) is considered loud, and welding activities such as flame cutting and air arcing can produce sounds over 100 dB. Regular or immediate exposure to them can cause permanent hearing loss.
Exposure to UV and IR radiation: Staring at the intense UV light produced by welding, without adequate personal protective equipment (PPE) or suitable welding curtains, can lead to a corneal burn. The severity of the injury will vary depending on the distance, duration, and angle of penetration. Long-term exposure to arc flashes may also cause cataracts and loss of vision.
Exposure to fumes and gases: Welding will expose you to invisible gases, including ozone, nitrogen oxides, chromium and nickel oxides, and carbon monoxide that can easily penetrate your lungs. The resulting damage can be very serious, depending on the gas or fume, the concentration, and the duration of your exposure.
Burning: The combination of high-temperature welding arcs, UV rays, and molten metal means that you are exposed to severe burns when soldering. These potentially serious burns can affect the skin or eyes and can happen in an instant.