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Hazards of Welding Work

Welding work is physically demanding and the work environment can be extremely hazardous. For these reasons, it is not surprising that welders have one of the most dangerous jobs within the United States. Welders must be extra cautious while on the job. Even when practicing safety measures, work injuries can still happen. Some injuries are more common among welders. If a welder becomes injured on the job, they may be eligible for workers’ compensation.

Working with Intense Heat Causes Severe Burns

You may be able to imagine that welding work requires intense heat, the temperature is not in the hundreds but in the thousands. As a result, one third of welding injuries are burns. When burn injuries happen, workers are away from the job for many days at a time since the burns are often very severe.

One way to prevent burns is by wearing proper protective gear and periodically inspecting it for holes or wear and tear; this also includes ensuring that hearing protection is flame resistant. Also, welders should not be wearing clothes with cuffs or open pockets where sparks or molten metal can get trapped and cause burns.

Injuries from Radiation

Many people do not realize that another way welder can get burned is through radiation. Radiation is emitted as electromagnetic energy during the welding process and can affect the skin and the eyes, so it is essential to wear the proper safety gear.

If welders do not have proper protection for their eyes, they could suffer flash burns which are not usually felt until a few hours after exposure. Symptoms can include mild pressure to intense pain in the eyes. Eyes may appear bloodshot, and the welder may feel an irritation in or behind the eyes. Sensitivity to light is also common.

Safety shields should be worn, they are meant to protect the eyes against flying debris. Welders must also have safety glasses with UV protection side shields. Lens worn by welders must also meet certain specifications to protect against radiation burns.

Fire Risks in Welding Areas

Since the welding area can get extremely hot, there is an inherent risk of fire when welding. Workers must ensure that there is a safe distance between the welding work and anything flammable or combustible, which is usually about 35 feet.

Additionally, protocols suggest that a watch team should be present while welding is taking place to ensure that there is no embers or sparks flying into a dangerous area. If that occurs, the team must attempt to extinguish the fire. If workers cannot be at least 35 feet back from combustible substances, they must be covered with special welding blankets or pads.

Downington Workers’ Compensation lawyers at Wusinich, Sweeney & Ryan, LLC Can Help If You Have Been Injured While on the Job

If you were injured on the job, you may be eligible to collect compensation. In some instances, the employer is required to provide safe protective gear and could be held responsible if the gear was not adequate. Our experienced Downington workers’ compensation lawyers at Wusinich, Sweeney & Ryan, LLC will evaluate your case and will determine if you are eligible for compensation. Contact us online or call us at 610-594-1600 to schedule a free consultation. Located in Exton, Pennsylvania, we also serve clients in Downingtown, West Chester, Coatesville, Phoenixville, Malvern, Lyndell, Wagontown, Uwchlan Township, Parkesburg, Chester Springs, Lancaster County, Reading, and Morgantown.