Welders on Oklahoma job sites need to be aware of the types of toxic fumes to which they may be exposed during the course of their duties. Both pressure and fusion welding produce smoke that contains potentially harmful gas byproducts and metal fumes. Metals contained in the fumes include arsenic, aluminum, lead, manganese and beryllium. Gas byproducts contained in the smoke include carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, hydrogen fluoride, nitrogen and argon. <\/p>\n
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, these substances can cause workers to experience serious health conditions. Long-term exposure can lead to the development of cancer of the larynx, urinary tract and the lungs. Even short-term exposure to the fumes can lead to nausea, dizziness and irritation of the eyes, throat and nose.<\/p>\n