Pulmonary Functions in Relation to Welding Processes and Materials

Abstract

The relation between pulmonary function indices (VC, FEV%, MEF 50, MEF 25, RV/TLC%, Raw) and welding processes and materials has been investigated in 489 welders in a heavy engineering (fabrication) industry. The welding processes studied were Manual Metal Arc (MMA) welding, gas metal arc (CO2) welding and Tungsten inert Gas (TIG) welding. The materials studied were carbon steel, alloy steel and stainless steel. No statistically significant differences were observed in any ofthe pulmonary function indices either across processes or across materials. With a proper understanding of the charteristics of the welding processes and hygeinic monitoring of the work environment, welder protection against fume is assured.