Handout on Welding Inhalation Hazards
BENEFITS
Welding, including any type of electric or fuel gas welding or cutting process such as arc welding, brazing, solid-state welding, soldering and resistance welding, is used to join materials and is a common practice in many industries. But welding exposes workers to various hazards, most notably the risk of inhaling toxic fumes and gasses.
HOW TO USE THE TOOL
Give this handout, which is based on one created by the IHSA in Ontario, to workers as a supplement to a safety or toolbox talk on the inhalation hazards posed by welding. Adapt it for your OHS program and the welding or hot work requirements in your jurisdiction’s OHS laws.
The person giving the safety talk should review the safety data sheet (SDS) for welding rods with the workers, paying special attention to:
- Hazardous ingredients;
- Health hazard data; and
- Preventive measures.
OTHER RESOURCES:
Take 6 Steps to Protect Workers from Welding Hazards