Welders
A welder is one who performs "a materials joining process which produces coalescence of materials by heating them to suitable temperatures with or without the application of pressure or by the application of pressure alone and with or without the use of filler material."
Actually, the term "welding" can apply to a number of different processes performed by the welder, including soldering, arc welding, brazing, resistance welding, and solid state welding, all suitable for different kinds of jobs.
Flame cutters are sometimes lumped into the same group as welders. A flame cutter uses an oxygen gas flame to heat metals in preparation for cutting them.
During the last century, welding and welders played an important role in the building of some of the nation's grandest skyscrapers, and during wars, welders were ever present at the nation's shipyards. As a matter of fact, welding allowed both ships and buildings to be constructed more quickly and efficiently, therefore saving both time and money.
Welders and Asbestos
Welding involves heat and fire; therefore, welders who worked on buildings and ships prior to the 1970-80s probably encountered asbestos on a daily basis. Before the asbestos warnings were issued, welding rods generally contained asbestos. That means the smoke that was produced from the welding process most likely contained tiny asbestos fibers that were easy for the welder and others around him/her to inhale. At the end of the process, excess material may have needed to be grinded down, producing yet more asbestos dust.
In order to protect themselves from the extreme heat and temperatures involved with welding, welders may have also worn heat- and fire-resistant clothing that was made from asbestos. Unfortunately, these items - including masks, aprons, coats, and gloves - presented further hazards. In addition, welders often wrapped asbestos blankets around the area of the weld as a way to protect themselves and others from the heat. The fraying of these blankets or any of the protective gear may have also resulted in inhalation of hazardous fibers.
Welders who worked in the profession prior to the asbestos warnings of the mid 70s are at a particularly high risk for developing asbestos-related diseases, including asbestos and mesothelioma, an aggressive cancer for which the only known cause is asbestos exposure.
Last modified: December 17 2007.
