Welding and cutting - 802 entries found

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1994

CIS 94-1875 Blätter M., Ott R., Rüdin P.
Welding and cutting. Protection against fumes, dust, gases and vapours
Schweissen and Schneiden. Schutz vor Rauchen, Stäuben, Gasen und Dämpfen [in German]
Saldatura e taglio: Protezione da fumi, polveri, gas e vapori [in Italian]
Coupage et soudage. Protection contre les fumées, poussières, gaz et vapeurs [in French]
This booklet is aimed at business owners, managers and safety coordinators within enterprises. The main problem surveyed is that of the exposure of welders to harmful substances (fumes, dust, vapours, gases) generated during different welding processes. Contents: principles of occupational hygiene; description of welding and cutting processes; exposure limits at the workplace; protection measures; summary of welding processes and of the harmful substances emitted by them.
Schweizerische Unfallversicherungsanstalt, Arbeitssicherheit, Postfach, 6002 Luzern, Switzerland, Aug. 1994. 35p. Illus. Bibl.ref.

CIS 94-1947 Coggon D., Inskip H., Winter P., Pannett B.
Lobar pneumonia: An occupational disease in welders
Analysis of occupational mortality data for England and Wales showed that mortality from pneumonia was consistently raised in welders aged 15-64; the increased risk was attributable mainly to an excess of pneumococcal and unspecified lobar pneumonia. A possible explanation of these findings is that welding fume reversibly increases the susceptibility of the lung to pneumonic infection. There are grounds for lobar pneumonia to be considered an occupational disease in welders. Comment on this report (page 4-5 of the same journal) considers that increased mortality from lobar pneumonia may occur in several metal trades and there is insufficient evidence to discriminate among specific job titles.
Lancet, 2 July 1994, Vol.344, No.8914, p.41-43. 17 ref.

CIS 94-2095 Panosian M.S., Dutcher P.O.
Transtympanic facial nerve injury in welders
Two cases of facial nerve paralysis following ear injury from molten metal or hot sparks produced during welding procedures are described. While the risk of such injury is small, the effects can be significant. The conventional welder's visor helmet, when worn correctly, shields the ear against sparks from the front, but when worn open or when working overhead or in cramped conditions, this protection is lost. The use of flame-resistant ear plugs or ear protectors in welding procedures that place the ear at risk would offer added protection.
Occupational Medicine, May 1994, Vol.44, No.2, p.99-101. 8 ref.

CIS 94-1624 Koh D., Lee H.S., Chia H.P., Phoon W.H.
Skin disorders among hand solderers in the electronics industry
Full-time solderers (n=150) and non-soldering administrative staff (n=52) were examined to determine the prevalence of work-related skin disorders. Prevalence rates of ever having a work-related rash since the start of work were 19.5% for workers using multicore flux and 10.3% for liquid flux users; prevalence rates for those wearing cotton gloves were lower than those for ungloved workers. Six solderers (all ungloved multicore flux users) had work-related dermatitis. Findings suggest that work-related skin disorders are fairly common among solderers and that the use of gloves and liquid flux reduces the risk of such disorders. Acne and elevated skin sebum levels were not found to be associated with soldering.
Occupational Medicine, Feb. 1994, Vol.44, No.1, p.24-28. 16 ref.

1993

CIS 97-1220 Check list for welding workshops
Checklista för svetsverkstäder [in Swedish]
This check list, designed for welding workshops, includes 77 items covering the following areas: incoming goods and stock rooms; welding workshops (general questions); welding electrodes; welding pistols; personal protective equipment; welding at temporarily workplaces; supplementary work (formation of slag); grinding; painting (with brush or roller); other questions.
Arbetarskyddsnämnden, Box 3208, 103 64 Stockholm, Sweden, 1993. 11p.

CIS 96-2110 Danielsen T.E., Langård S., Andersen A., Knudsen Ø.
Incidence of cancer among welders of mild steel and other shipyard workers
The incidence of cancer among 4,571 shipyard workers with first employment between 1940 and 1979, including 623 welders of mild steel, was investigated in a historical cohort study. The loss to follow up was 1.1%. The total number of deaths was 1,078 (974.5 expected) and there were 408 cases of cancer v 361.3 expected. Sixty-five cases of lung cancer were found v 46.3 expected based on the national rates for males. Four pleural mesotheliomas had occurred (1.2 expected), none among the welders. An excess of lung cancers was found among the welders (nine cases v 3.6 expected). There were six cases of lung cancer v 1.6 expected in a high exposure group of 255 welders. A survey of the smoking habits as of 1984 indicated 10-20% more daily smokers among the shipyard production workers than among Norwegian males. Exposure to smoking and asbestos were confounding variables in this study.
British Journal of Industrial Medicine, Dec. 1993, Vol.50, No.12, p.1097-1103. 24 ref.

CIS 96-1204 Noise from compressors, welding generators and power generators [Sweden]
Buller från kompressorer, svetsgeneratorer och kraftgeneratorer [in Swedish]
This regulation was adopted on 21 September 1993 and is an adaptation of the EEC directives 84/533/EEC (CIS 95-1195), 85/406/EEC, 84/535/EEC (CIS 95-1197), 85/407/EEC, 84/536/EEC (CIS 95-1198), 85/408/EEC, 84/532/EEC, 79/113/EEC (CIS 95-1193) and 81/1051/EEC (CIS 95-1194). It covers: application and definitions; conditions for release on the market; type approval; exposure limits for noise; declaration of conformity; marking; special provisions; advice for the implementation of the regulation. In annexes 1 to 5: sample forms for type approval; method for determination of noise level; method for determination of air from compressors; sample form for noise level certification; sample form for declaration of conformity regarding noise; example of a sign for indicating noise levels.
Arbetarskyddsstyrelsen, Publikationsservice, Box 1300, 171 25 Solna, Sweden, 1993. 36p. Illus.

CIS 95-2113 Grothe G., Kramume G., et al.
Research results for practical use - Safe organization of welding workplaces
Forschungsergebnisse für die Praxis - Einrichtung von Schweisswerkstätten unter Arbeitsschutzaspekten [in German]
Contents of this information note: introduction; scope; hazards and exposures during welding work; preparation of workpieces; layout of welding workplaces; gas and electricity supply; limits of welding workplaces; welding work stations; tools and machinery; judicial overview (ordinances, directives and rules: ASR, TRAC, TRB, TRGS, UVV, ZH) and list of relevant standards (DIN and others) applicable in Germany.
Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz, Friedrich-Henkel-Weg 1-25, Postfach 17 02 02, 44061 Dortmund, Germany, 1993. 20p. 19 ref.

CIS 94-1876 Bengtsson G.
Work environment in welding. Exhaust-arms
Arbetsmiljö vid svetsning. Utsugningsarmar [in Swedish]
Booklet on design of devices meant for holding exhaust hoods which are used to collect welding fumes. Main issues: types of exhaust arms, components, exhaust source, efficiency and testing of the exhaust system. A checklist is included for use when choosing equipment. The most common brands of exhaust arm on the Swedish market are outlined and described.
Hellmans Förlag, Box 316, 641 23 Katrineholm, Sweden, 1993, 32p. Illus.

CIS 94-1298 Rinehart R.D., Yanagisawa Y.
Paraoccupational exposures to lead and tin carried by electric-cable splicers
To test the hypothesis that electric-cable splicers contaminate their homes with lead and tin, 9 splicers were matched with their neighbors. House dust samples were collected in two areas within each home: a laundry room/dirty clothes area, and a composite sample from other areas in the house. Samples were analyzed by energy dispersive x-ray fluorescence for lead and tin. The difference in the geometric mean lead concentrations in both the laundry areas and the other areas between the splicers' and neighbours' homes was significant. Tin concentrations in house dust were also higher in the splicers' homes. Recommendations are included to prevent paraoccupational lead exposures by eliminating the pathways into the home.
American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal, Oct. 1993, Vol.54, No.10, p.593-599. Illus. 30 ref.

CIS 94-1028 Wagg R.M.
Health and Safety Executive, Technology and Health Sciences Division
Rosin (colophony) - A review
This report summarizes information about sources of colophony, its chemistry and uses and health risks associated with exposure. Occupational exposure to rosin fume, dust or mist may occur in paper manufacture, paint, adhesives, rubber, electronics, engineering and printing industries. Rosin cored soldering has been specifically associated with asthma caused by respiratory sensitization to solder fume. The current occupational exposure limit is discussed along with methods of measurement, assessment of health risks and control of exposure by means of extraction systems and personal protective equipment.
HSE Information Centre, Broad Lane, Sheffield S3 7HQ, United Kingdom, July 1993. iv, 12p. 21 ref.

CIS 94-682 McElearney N., Irvine D.
A study of thorium exposure during tungsten inert gas welding in an airline engineering population
To investigate the theoretic possibility of an excessive exposure to thorium during the process of tungsten inert gas (TIG) welding using thorinated rods a cross-sectional study was carried out of TIG welders, non TIG welders and controls. No excess morbidity was found either among the TIG welders or the controls. The internal radiation doses were estimated at less than an annual level of acceptable intake in all cases. Some additional precautionary measures are suggested to reduce further any potential hazard from this process.
Journal of Occupational Medicine, July 1993, Vol.35, No.7, p.707-711. 18 ref.

CIS 93-1948 Nunez C.M., Klitzman S., Goodman A.
Lead exposure among automobile radiator repair workers and their children in New York city
Despite a comprehensive Occupational Safety and Health Administration lead standard, exposure to lead continues in many industries. This paper describes a blood lead screening and education programme for automobile radiator repair workers and their families in New York city. Results showed that 67% of automobile radiator repair workers (n=62) in 89% of the shops tested (n=24) had blood lead levels in excess of 25µg/dL. The vast majority of workers had never been tested previously, and none had received health and safety training regarding occupational lead exposure. Although none of the workers' children's blood lead levels were in excess of then-current guidelines, several had levels which may be associated with subclinical toxicity and in excess of the revised Centers for Disease Control guidelines of 10µg/dL. This project demonstrates that lead exposure in the automotive radiator repair industry continues to be widespread and that local health departments can assist in hazard identification and remediation.
American Journal of Industrial Medicine, May 1993, Vol.23, No.5, p.763-777. Illus. 20 ref.

CIS 93-1283 Méndez M.
New shielding gases for welding operations
Nuevos gases de protección para soldadura [in Spanish]
Hazards of gases, in particular ozone, generated during arc welding operations and the use of MISON shielding gases as a preventive measure are discussed. Ozone emission levels in connection with various welding processes, such as tungsten inert gas-shielded arc welding, metal inert gas-shielded arc welding and metal active gas-shielded arc welding, and ozone elimination by the use of MISON shielding gases are studied. The beneficial effect of MISON shielding gases on the health of welders is pointed out. Summary in English.
Mapfre seguridad, 1st Quarter 1993, No.49, p.15-21. Illus. 18 ref.

1992

CIS 96-75 What you should know about welding safety
Training booklet on the hazards of welding and cutting operations and their prevention: fires and explosions; electrical shock; compressed gas cylinders; personal protective equipment; eye protection; protective clothing; respiratory protection; first aid.
Scriptographic Publications Ltd., Channing House, Butts Road, Alton, Hants GU34 1ND, United Kingdom, 1992. 15p. Illus. Price: GBP 0.55-0.94 (depending on number of Scriptographic booklets ordered). ###

CIS 95-1261 Gas welding
Soudage au chalumeau [in French]
This illustrated brochure, which may be used for training purposes, describes the risks of gas welding operations and outlines preventive measures. It is mainly designed for supervisory staff and workers, though it can also be useful for consulting or engineering firms responsible for the design of operations and the selection of adequate processes and equipment.
Institut national de recherche et de sécurité (INRS), 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, 1st ed., July 1992. 22p. Illus.

CIS 94-2050 Hölemann H., Worpenberg R.
Welding, flame cutting and soldering as causes of fires - The range of sparks and their ignition potential
Brandursache Schweissen, Brennschneiden und Löten - Reichweite und Zündpotential glühender Partikel [in German]
Records of 311 fires involving welding or similar processes and 111 records of a fire brigade were studied to determine the detailed causes of the fires. Approximately 50% of the fires were started by flying sparks from welding, flame cutting or soldering. Ignoring fire protection rules and false ideas about the distances at which sparks are still capable of igniting fires were contributing factors. Experimental determinations of the range and surface temperatures of sparks showed that sparks from flame cutting had temperatures of 1600° to 1700°C at distances of 4m and more. Sparks could fly 10-15m.
VFDB-Zeitschrift, 1992, Vol.41, No.2, p.79-84. Illus. 14 ref.

CIS 94-1462
Arbetarskyddsstyrelsen (National Board of Occupational Safety and Health)
Welding and thermal cutting [Sweden]
Smältsvetsning och termisk skärning [in Swedish]
This directive replaces AFS 1989:1 (CIS 90-1421). The basic requirement is that work involving gas/arc welding and cutting must be planned and conducted in such a way as to minimize exposure to welding fumes. Contents: requirements for gas cylinders and pipes; marking of hazardous electrodes and welding flux; ventilation; personal protective equipment; health risks and safe working practices. Detailed commentary. In annex: checklist for safe welding and cutting. Detailed commentaries are appended.
Publikationsservice, Box 1300, 171 25 Solna, Sweden, 1992. 30p. Illus.

CIS 93-1911 Hée G., Lacoste-Labrit M.
Equipment for gas and plasma arc cutting - Air contamination control
Machines de coupage thermique des métaux - Traitement de la pollution [in French]
This practical guide discusses the safety problems connected with gas cutting and plasma arc cutting. Safety measures are given both to counter mechanical hazards and to deal with the control of air contamination. A table is presented to show the various risks, their causes and aggravating factors, as well as the corresponding preventive measures.
Travail et sécurité, June 1992, No.501, p.403-306. Illus.

CIS 93-1575 Carrer P., Maroni M., Farulla A., Simonazzi S., Iachetta R.
Efficacy of personal prevention measures in metal exposure control in welders
Efficacia delle misure di prevenzione personale nel contenimiento della esposizione a metalli dei saldatori [in Italian]
Biological monitoring of welders employed in a power plant showed urinary nickel levels largely exceeding the reference values (Ni-U welders mean=43.2, S.D.=22.1µg/24 h; Ni-U reference values mean=2.7, S.D.=1.4µg/24 h). Subsequently urinary excretion levels of other metals (Cr, Zn, fe, Mn, Cu, Al, Pb) were measured for a more complete assessment of occupational exposure of these subjects; only aluminium and lead were found to slightly exceed the reference values and correlate with urinary nickel levels. As a consequence of these results, some adjustments in personal prevention measures were introduced at the workplace; the subsequent biological monitoring checks showed a progressive reduction in urinary nickel excretion levels over time in all welders.
Medicina del lavoro, Nov.-Dec. 1992, Vol.83, No.86, p.587-595. Illus. 23 ref.

CIS 93-848 Moulin J.J., Wild P., Toamain J.P.
Epidemiologic study of mortality in welding: Multicentre survey in France
Etude épidémiologique de mortalité sur le soudage: enquête multicentrique réalisée en France [in French]
Methodology and results of a prospective historical study of mortality among welders of stainless steel conducted in France between 1985 and 1990 in 13 industrial establishments (ship-building, electrical engineering, petrochemicals, manufacture of industrial and military armoured vehicles, maintenance of railway equipment, boilermaking, manufacture of equipment for the nuclear and hydraulic power industries). The study takes account of the welding of stainless steel, the presumed resulting exposure to hexavalent chromium, and the effects of smoking. Welders of stainless steel do not seem to have a higher risk of broncho-pulmonary cancer than do welders of soft steel.
Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Mar. 1992. 43p. Illus. Bibl.ref.

CIS 93-909 Rose C.S., Heywood P.G., Costanzo R.M.
Olfactory impairment after chronic occupational cadmium exposure
Fifty-five workers with chronic occupational exposure to cadmium fumes in a brazing operation were examined. Cadmium body burden was estimated and cadmium-induced renal damage was assessed. Olfactory function was quantified using a standardised test that measured two components of olfaction, butanol detection threshold and odour identification, and workers were compared with a reference group. Forty-four percent of the cadmium-exposed workers were mildly hyposmic; 13% were either moderately or severely hyposmic. In the reference group, 31% were mildly hyposmic, and the rest were normosmic. The workers with both high urinary cadmium levels and tubular proteinuria had the most significant olfactory dysfunction, with a selective defect in odour detection threshold. The findings suggest that chronic occupational cadmium exposure sufficient to cause renal damage also is associated with impairment in olfactory function.
Journal of Occupational Medicine, June 1992, Vol.34, No.6, p.600-605. Illus. 25 ref.

CIS 93-554 Zwennis W.C.M., Franssen A.C.
Assessment of occupational exposure to cadmium in the Netherlands, 1980-1989
One thousand five hundred fifty urine samples and 1,295 blood samples, collected from 919 workers, were analysed for cadmium (Cd). The workers were employed at 16 different types of workplaces. In about 7.5% of the samples, the concentration of Cd exceeded the biological limit values (CdU = 5µg/g creatinine; CdB = 5µg/L) proposed by the Dutch Expert Committee for Occupational Standards. Levels higher than these values were measured in both urine samples and blood samples of workers involved in electrochemical plating, in production of Cd stabilisers and enamels, and in soldering with silver-cadmium solder. Significantly higher concentrations of β2-microglobulin (MG) were found in urine samples with CdU >10µg/g creatinine. Cd levels in urine increased with age.
American Journal of Industrial Medicine, June 1992, Vol.21, No.6, p.793-805. Illus. 34 ref.

CIS 93-162 Bonde J.P.E., Olsen J.H., Hansen K.S.
Adverse pregnancy outcome and childhood malignancy with reference to paternal welding exposure
This study examines reproductive end points in a Danish cohort of 10,059 metalworkers who fathered 3,569 children in 1973 through 1986. Occupational histories were gathered by postal questionnaires. Information on pregnancy outcomes and offspring was obtained by record linkage to medical registers. The occurrence of reduced birthweight, preterm delivery, infant mortality, and congenital malformation was not increased among children at risk from paternal welding exposure in comparison with children not at risk. The overall incidence of childhood malignancies among 23,264 children born in 1968 through 1986 with a total of 259,113 person-years of follow-up was equal to national rates (relative risk 0.97, 95% confidence interval 0.63-1.42). However, pregnancies preceding a birth at risk from paternal exposure to stainless steel welding were more often terminated by spontaneous abortion (odds ratio 1.9, 95% confidence interval 1.1-3.2). This finding needs cautious interpretation and the effects of exposure to welding on spermatogenesis should be further investigated.
Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health, June 1992, Vol.18, No.3, p.169-177. Illus. 31 ref.

CIS 92-1923 Gómez Oliver A.I., Martín-Montalvo Recio A., Sánchez Ramos E., Rodríguez Rodríguez J.M.
Occupational risks in workshops and production of metallic goods (I-Summary of the Report; II-Manual electric arc welding)
Riesgos profesionales en talleres de fabricación de artículos metálicos - I-Resumen del informe; II-Soldadura eléctrica manual al arco [in Spanish]
A study to investigate the occupational risks in the production of metallic goods was carried out in Spain in 1989 by the National Safety and Health Institute. Part I is a report on the study involving 1,744 work processes and 2,221 work tasks in 211 enterprises. Major risks were: being hit by projected particles; machine-caused injuries; noise; inhalation of welding fumes and iron oxide. After concluding that safety and hygiene conditions and prevention are in general inadequate in this sector, preventive guidelines are proposed. Part II deals with the particular hazards of electric arc welding. Detailed statistics on sources of risk and extent of exposure to them by workers.
Salud y trabajo, 1992, No.91, p.4-20. Illus.

CIS 92-1443 Boilers and Pressure Vessels (General) Regulations 1992; Boilers and Pressure Vessels (Certification of Welders) Regulations 1992 [Australia - Victoria]
These regulations (made on 30 June 1992, effective 1 July 1992) were issued under the Victoria Boilers and Pressure Vessels Act 1979 (see CIS 92-1085). Contents of the first regulation: definitions; exemptions; design and construction considerations; duties of the Chief Inspector; technical safety requirements; valves and pressure gauges; registration; inspection and testing; conditions of use. In the schedules: sample forms for applications, design approvals, boiler and pressure vessel specifications, notifications and notices; list of relevant standards; intervals of inspection for various classes of boilers and pressure vessels. The second regulation deals with the certification of welders who work on boilers or pressure vessels.
In: Australian Industrial Safety, Health and Welfare, CCH Australia Ltd., CNR Talavera & Khartoum Roads, Box 230, North Ryde, NSW 2113, Australia, Vol.2, 34p. (pages numbered 60,923 - 60,978).

CIS 92-940 Harie M., Ashida T., Mori Y., Ohmori K.
Local ventilation systems in welding workshops - Improvements of the workplace environment and problems
Yōsetsu sagyōba ni dōnyū sareta kyokusho haiki sōchi - kaizen no kōka to mondaiten ni tsuite [in Japanese]
The working environment in 4 welding workshops of sash window manufacturers was measured 10 times over a period of 5yrs, during which time the effects of introducing various types of ventilation systems and their performance in removing welding fumes from the workplace environment were analysed. The workplace environment was evaluated by area and personal monitoring for airborne particles, which were analysed in terms of mass concentration and free silica content (determined by X-ray diffraction). The effects of the ventilation systems were also monitored with a continuous direct reading dust meter. Enclosure hoods on robot welders and canopy hoods with curtains installed above welding tables improved the workplace significantly. Small portable exterior hoods attached to welding torches were more effective than expected, but were not favoured by the workers due to the increase in torch weight.
Journal of Working Environment, 1 Jan. 1992, Vol.13, No.1, p.56-62. Illus. 10 ref.

1991

CIS 94-1354 Welding - Materials for resistance welding electrodes and ancillary equipment
Soudage - Matériaux pour électrodes de soudage par résistance et équipements annexes [in French]
This international standard specifies the characteristics of materials for resistance welding electrodes and ancillary equipment which are used for carrying current and transmitting force to the work. Contents: classification of materials (copper and cooper alloys, sintered materials); characteristics of materials (chemical composition, mechanical and electrical properties); methods of test. An annex lists typical welding applications for various classes of materials.
International Organization for Standardization, Case Postale 56, 1211 Genève 20, Switzerland, 2nd ed., 1991. 9p. 2 ref.

CIS 94-977 Fack W., Becker W.
Water tables for plasma arc cutting protect workers and the environment
Wassertische für thermisches Trennen gewährleisten den Arbeits- und Umweltschutz [in German]
The advantages of plasma arc cutting with water injection are outlined. Through the presence of water, no metal or metal oxide dusts are emitted and ozone formation is kept to a minimum. Ultraviolet radiation is diminished to such an extent that no safety spectacles are needed. Nitrogen oxides are drawn off. Noise levels are reduced to below 80dB(A). The method can be applied for cutting sheet metal and steels 1.5-2.8mm thick. Basic design and different versions of the equipment are described.
Argus Journal, Aug. 1991, Vol.3, No.6, p.12-16. Illus.

CIS 94-623 Bonde J.P., Christensen J.M.
Chromium in biological samples from low-level exposed stainless steel and mild steel welders
Occupational exposure to hexavalent chromium is of concern because of the carcinogenic action of this metal. The purpose of this study was to evaluate internal exposure to chromium in welders who were exposed to low levels of chromium. Chromium in urine, blood, and seminal fluid was determined among 60 welders and 45 controls. The concentration of chromium in urine and blood did not change across a workshift or across a 3-wk break in exposure. However, stainless-steel and mild-steel welders who were exposed to low levels of chromium and steel welders who were mildly exposed had significantly increased levels of chromium in post-shift urine (mean 2.1nmol/mmol creatinine [standard deviation (SD) = 1.0] and 1.3nmol/mmol creatinine [SD = 0.5], respectively) compared with controls (mean 0.7nmol/mmol creatinine [SD = 0.3]). Pre-shift blood chromium concentrations showed a similar variation between exposed workers and controls. Subgroups of stainless-steel welders had very high levels of chromium in seminal fluid which may be partly explained by nonoccupational factors. Attention should focus on the potential risk of delayed health effects among stainless-steel and mild-steel welders who heretofore were not thought to be at risk from chromium exposure.
Archives of Environmental Health, July/Aug. 1991, Vol.46, No.4, p.225-229. 18 ref.

CIS 93-858 Mira Muñoz M.
Welding work - Medical considerations of its health hazards
Los trabajos de soldadura - Consideraciones médicas de sus riesgos sobre la salud [in Spanish]
Health hazards in welding activities, in particular those related to toxic substances such as welding fumes, are analysed. Health effects are examined in terms of the different body systems and organs, including respiratory, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, musculoskeletal, reproductive, dermatological, ophthalmological, auditory and oncogenic effects. Noting that some technical knowledge of welding processes is necessary in order to evaluate the health hazards related to these activities, welding technologies such as gas and arc welding are described. Hazard evaluation and preventive measures are also discussed.
Medicina y seguridad del trabajo, Apr.-June 1991, Vol.38, No.152, p.45-56. 60 ref.

CIS 93-856 Simonato L., Fletcher A.C., Andersen A., Anderson K., Becker N., Chang-Claude J., Ferro G., Gérin M., Gray C.N., Hansen K.S., Kalliomäki P.L., Kurppa K., Langard S., Merló F., Moulin J.J., Newhouse M.L., Peto J., Pukkala E., Sjögren B., Wild P., Winkelmann R., Saracci R.
A historical prospective study of European stainless steel, mild steel and shipyard welders
A multicentre cohort of 11,092 male welders from 135 companies in 9 European countries was assembled with the aim of investigating the relationship of potential cancer risk, lung cancer in particular, with occupational exposure. Follow up was successful for 96.9% of the cohort. Overall, a statistically significant excess was reported for mortality from lung cancer (116 observed versus 86.81 expected deaths, SMR = 134). When analysed by type of welding, lung-cancer mortality increased with time since first exposure, particularly among stainless-steel welders. No clear relation was apparent between mortality from lung cancer and duration of exposure to or estimated cumulative dose of Ni or Cr. There were five deaths from pleural mesothelioma unrelated to the type of welding, drawing attention to the risk of exposure to asbestos in welding activities.
British Journal of Industrial Medicine, Mar. 1991, Vol.48, No.3, p.145-154. 36 ref.

CIS 93-249 Arechiga H., Greco A.
The hidden hazard - Respiratory protection: Welding fumes
"El riesgo oculto" - Protección respiratoria: humos de soldadura [in Spanish]
Various welding types are examined (arc, oxyacetylene and resistance welding). Attention is paid to the production of welding fumes as an occupational risk. Health hazards of welding fumes are reviewed and presented in tables. These include: pulmonary fibrosis and oedema, bronchitis, metal-fume fever, eye and respiratory tract irritation. Ventilation and respirators are presented as protective measures. Importance is given to training on the use and maintenance of respirators.
Protección y seguridad, Sep.-Oct. 1991, No.5, p.10-14. Illus.

CIS 92-1984 Wallenstein G., Schulz P., Christann M., Schöneich R., Dietz E.
Longitudinal study of workers exposed to colophony soldering fumes and of controls
Längsschnittstudie von Kolophoniumlötrauchexponierten und Kontrollpersonen [in German]
In this follow-up study 267 workers using colophony as soldering flux and 239 controls were re-examined after five years. The examined workers were employees of the electrical industry in the former German Democratic Republic. Measurements of the concentration of total aldehydes at 37 workplaces yielded an average value of 0.095mg/m³, which was somewhat lower than at the time of the first examinations. The prevalence of respiratory impairment among exposed workers found in the first study could be confirmed. It was related to the intensity of exposure rather than duration.
Zeitschrift für die gesamte Hygiene und ihre Grenzgebiete, 1991, Vol.37, No.2, p.75-78. Illus. 8 ref.

CIS 92-1153 Welding gases and fumes: Understanding the hazards
The booklet provides basic information for welders concerning welding gases and fumes. The contents include: health effects, including a table linking particular fumes and gases with effects and symptoms; Occupational Exposure Limits; explanation of the variables which affect exposure; high risk situations; ventilation methods; respiratory protective equipment.
Alberta Occupational Health and Safety, 5th Floor, 4920 - 51 Street, Red Deer, Alberta T4N 5Y5, Canada, 1991. 24p.

CIS 92-784
Deutscher Verband für Schweisstechnik
Occupational safety and health in welding operations
Arbeitsschutz beim Schweissen [in German]
Series of 12 training leaflets on safety in welding operations: 1. Gas welding; 2. Metal-arc welding with covered electrode; 3. MAG welding; 4. MIG welding; 5. TIG welding; 6. Welding of coated pieces; 7. Gas cutting; 8. Welding in confined spaces; 9. Welding in flammable or explosive atmospheres; 10. Welding in high electrical risk situations: 11. Risks due to harmful substances; 12. Occupational pathology and prevention. Each leaflet contains information on specific dangers, appropriate tools and safety measures.
Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz, Vogelpothsweg 50-52, D-W-4600 Dortmund 1, Germany. (12 leaflets of about 3 pages each).

CIS 92-985 Decommissioning and removal of offshore structures. Summary report.
Status report on the initial phases of a study concerning the safe use of explosive techniques for the removal of offshore structures. Projects include use of finite element analysis to determine the structural response to explosive loadings and work on explosive cutting techniques.
Marinetech North West, Coupland III Building, The University, Manchester M13 9PL, United Kingdom, 1991. 5p.

CIS 92-834 Moulin J.J., Diebold F., Limasset J.C.
Cancer risk among welders - A review of the epidemiological evidence
Risque de cancer chez les soudeurs - Revue bibliographique des enquêtes épidémiologiques [in French]
Several epidemiological studies have addressed the question of cancer (particularly lung cancer) incidence among welders. These studies (21 case-controls studies and 27 cohort studies) are reviewed in this article, concentrating on the assessment of lung cancer linked to stainless steel welding. Comparison is made with mild steel welding, taking into account, as far as possible, exposures to asbestos and tobacco smoke. According to most of the studies, the relative risk for lung cancer is approximately 1.40 for welders as a whole. Although data on smoking habits are often lacking, this excess is unlikely to be totally explainable by tobacco smoking. The occurrence of mesotheliomas among different groups of welders suggests that asbestos exposure might have partly contributed to this lung cancer excess. Studies focusing on lung cancer risk associated with chromium or nickel exposure do not provide a clear link between lung cancer and stainless steel welding, as opposed to mild steel welding.
Cahiers de notes documentaires - Sécurité et hygiène du travail, 4th Quarter 1991, No.145, Note No.1854-145-91, p.679-691. 23 ref.

CIS 92-904 Cornu J.C., Muller J.P.
MIG-MAG welding torches with fume exhaust devices - Exhaust efficiency measurement method - Study of relevant parameters
Torches aspirantes de soudage MIG/MAG - Méthode de mesure de l'efficacité de captage - Etude de paramètres d'influence [in French]
A method was developed for measuring the efficiency of fume exhaust devices on MIG-MAG welding torches. Applicable in the laboratory and on site, it is based on the use of a tracer gas (helium) which may be a component of the welding gas or be mixed with it. The effects of certain operating parameters of torches equipped with fume exhaust devices are described: exhaust rate and protector gas flow rate, position of torch in relation to the line of welding, welding position. The position of the exhaust vents in relation to the fumes released is a very important factor in the exhaust efficiency of welding lamps.
Cahiers de notes documentaires - Sécurité et hygiène du travail, 4th Quarter 1991, No.145, Note No.1852-145-91, p.663-669. Illus. 9 ref.

CIS 92-553 Brunk M.F., Pfeiffer W.
Ventilation of welding shops
Lüftung in Schweisshallen [in German]
The efficiency of various ventilation systems in carrying off welding fumes was determined by calculating the fresh air supply required in each case. Top, bottom and lateral air supply systems were considered. Systems with fresh air supply from the bottom or from the side wall close to the bottom of the room were found to require the lowest volume of fresh air.
Argus Journal, Mar.-Apr. 1991. No.3, p.30-33. Illus. 7 ref.

CIS 91-1907 Welding - Peel and chisel testing of resistance spot, projection and seam welds
Soudage - Essais de pelage et de déboutonnage au burin appliqués aux soudures par résistance par points, par bossages et à molette [in French]
This international standard specifies the procedure and tooling to be used for testing of resistance spot, projection and seam welds by means of peel and chisel tests. The aim of these tests is to determine the weld size and the failure type in resistance welds made in 2 or more sheets, in the thickness range of 0.5mm to 3.0mm.
International Organization for Standardization, Case postale 56, 1211 Genève 20, Switzerland, 1 July 1991. 6p. Illus.

CIS 91-1900 Balchin N.C.
Health and safety in welding and allied processes
This edition of the handbook has been updated to take account of technological developments and changes in UK safety legislation. The information has been compiled mostly for use in the UK. Topics include: outline of welding processes; gas welding and cutting; arc welding and cutting; personal protective equipment; work on vessels contaminated by flammable materials; plasma arc processes; electroslag welding; resistance welding; thermit welding; electron beam welding; laser welding and cutting; brazing and braze welding; soft soldering; thermal spraying; welding and flame spraying plastics; radiographic inspection; mechanical hazards; sources, measurement and assessment of fume; ventilation and fume protection; lighting; fire; first aid; UK legislation.
Abington Publishing, Abington Hall, Abington, Cambridge CB1 6AH, United Kingdom, 4th ed., 1991. 232p. Illus. Bibl.ref. Index. Price: GBP 37.50.

CIS 91-1689 Salsi S., Barlier A.
Optical radiation during manual arc welding with coated electrodes. Hazards and preventive measures
Rayonnements optiques émis lors du soudage manuel à l'arc avec électrodes enrobées - Risques et moyens de prévention [in French]
This article presents the results of spectroradiometric measurements carried out on 109 coated electrodes. The aim of the study was to identify and measure the health hazards of welding with coated electrodes and also to work out minimum recommendations for protective filters. The results of the study are: major health hazards are due to actinic ultraviolet and visible radiations; filter efficiency depends entirely on the level of visible radiation hazard; for a given welding power, protection levels recommended in France are in general 0-4 degrees higher than those related to eye hazards.
Cahiers de notes documentaires - Sécurité et hygiène du travail, 2nd Quarter 1991, No.143, Note No.1827-143-91, p.223-233. Illus. 13 ref.

CIS 91-1570 Welding
Hegesztés [in Hungarian]
This series of 36 information sheets deals with various aspects of safety and health in connection with welding. Subjects covered: storage and handling of compressed-gas cylinders; preparation for welding jobs; installation of pressure regulators and welding torches; back-pressure valves; gas leaks and overheating of cylinders; malfunctions during gas welding and cutting; ergonomic considerations; arc welding (layout of the workplace; installation; safe working practices; maintenance and testing); personal protection of welders (protective equipment and clothing; eye and face protection); ventilation; hazards of exposure to welding fumes and their elimination.
Országos Munkavédelmi Tudományos Kutató Intézet, 1021 Budapest, Ötvös János u. 1-3, Hungary, 1991. 36 information notes. Illus.

CIS 91-962 A safety officer's notes on welding: Fume Information Sheets (FIS) 1-10
A collection of 10 information sheets concerning the health hazards faced by workers exposed to welding fumes and the corresponding precautions and control methods. Contents: general principles; ventilation and respiratory protection for welding; carbon steel welding; low alloy steel welding; stainless and other high alloy steel welding; aluminium welding; arc surfacing and hardfacing; nickel and nickel alloy welding; cast iron welding; copper and copper alloy welding.
Safety Review (Electricity Association), 1991, Vol.49, insert pages i-xvi (between pages 18 and 19).

CIS 91-909 Gupta B.N., Rastogi S.K., Husain T., Mathur N., Pangtey B.S.
A study of respiratory morbidity and pulmonary function among solderers in the electronics industry
Pulmonary function assessment of 197 solderers using lead-tin alloy impregnated solder was compared with findings observed in 143 unexposed controls. Findings showed an excessive prevalence of respiratory symptoms in the exposed workers, with a higher prevalence among females. The solder fumes mainly induced a restrictive type of ventilatory disturbance followed by a mixed variety. A small fraction of the exposed group suffered from bronchial obstruction, although only a mild degree of ventilatory abnormalities was observed. The concentrations of lead fumes and organic solvents were found to be below recommended TLV values. Recommendations include provision of improved ventilation with local exhaust ducts for each worker.
American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal, Feb. 1991, Vol.52, No.2, p.45-51. Illus. 23 ref.

1990

CIS 94-1697 Code of practice for safety in welding and cutting (and other operations involving the use of heat)
Contents of this Code of Practice: definitions; application, installation, operation and maintenance of arc welding and cutting equipment; hazards and precautions for plasma arc, electron beam and laser welding and cutting, resistance welding, oxygen-fuel gas systems, brazing installations and thermit welding; protection of personnel (eye protection, protective clothing, work in confined spaces, fire protection, precautions for radiography); health protection and ventilation; precautions during welding and cutting operations at public exhibitions.
Singapore Institute of Standards and Industrial Research, 1 Science Park Drive, Singapore 0511, 1990. 57p. Illus. 10 ref.

CIS 93-708
Hauptverband der gewerblichen Berufsgenossenschaften
Welding, cutting and similar operations [Germany]
Schweissen, Schneiden und verwandte Arbeitsverfahren [in German]
Revised version of these safety regulations (updating document abstracted under CIS 78-1119) applying to welding, cutting, brazing, heating, hardening, metallising and other metalworking processes involving the use of gas/oxygen or gas/compressed air mixtures, to similar processes using electric power, and to thermit welding. General provisions respecting minimum age for admission to employment, employment of women, personal protective equipment, ventilation, work in confined spaces, fire and explosion hazards, hazardous work in or on tanks. Special provisions concerning gas and oxygen installations and gas welding, arc welding materials and operations, safe working methods for resistance welding, welding under water or in compressed air, and safety measures for thermit welding. Annex: information sheet on the prevention of acetylene container explosions, more detailed rules for application of the regulations, and comments.
Carl Heymanns Verlag KG, Luxemburger Strasse 449, D-W-5000 Köln 41, Germany, Apr. 1990. 31 + 48p. Illus.

CIS 92-480 Narda R., Magnavita N., Sacco A., Sarnari L., Sani L.
Chronic conjunctivitis in arc welders - Cross-sectional study
Affezioni oculari nei saldatori - Uno studio longitudinale [in Italian]
A follow-up study of chronic conjunctivitis in arc welders in a foundry in Italy was conducted from 1979 up to 1989. Airborne dust concentrations in the foundry often exceeded the TLV-TWA limit. The frequency of chronic conjunctivitis was markedly higher amongst the welders than in the unexposed controls (RR = 4.25). The incidence rate of conjunctivitis was 4.98% in the exposed group: manual welders showed a higher incidence rate (5.69%) than non-manual welders (risk ratio = 1.76). Ocular symptoms (eye burning, lacrymation, photophobia) often occurred well before the development of chronic conjunctivitis (predictive value = 61.5%). In current occupational health practice, the disclosure of a high prevalence of ocular symptoms should lead to careful examination of the working environment.
Medicina del lavoro, Sep.-Oct. 1990, Vol.81, No.5, p.399-406. 11 ref.

CIS 92-231 Sjögren B., Gustavsson P., Hogstedt C.
Neuropsychiatric symptoms among welders exposed to neurotoxic metals
Neuropsychiatric symptoms in 65 welders exposed to aluminium and 217 railroad track welders were studied with the aid of a previously validated questionnaire. Semi-quantitative data on exposure to the metals aluminium, chromium, lead, manganese, and nickel were also recorded by questionnaire. Logistic regression was employed to study the relation between exposure and the prevalence of symptoms. Welders exposed to aluminium, lead, or manganese for a long period had significantly more neuropsychiatric symptoms than welders not exposed to these metals. The results indicate that detailed psychometric studies should be performed on welders exposed long term to specific metals as such exposures might affect their nervous system.
British Journal of Industrial Medicine, Oct. 1990, Vol.47, No.10, p.704-707. 21 ref.

CIS 92-142 Bonde J.P.
Semen quality in welders before and after three weeks of non-exposure
In a cross sectional field study concerning the male reproductive system in metalworkers, the major findings were a moderate deterioration of semen quality in mild steel welders and less reliable changes in semen quality in low exposed stainless steel welders. In the present study, a longitudinal design was adopted to deal with methodological drawbacks inherent in the cross sectional approach. The study relies on the assumption that the effect of welding is causal and reversible. The semen quality of 19 mild steel welders, 18 stainless steel welders and 16 non-welding metalworkers was examined before and 3, 5, and 8 weeks after a 3-week break in exposure (summer vacation). The results indicate either a non-causal nature of reported associations between welding exposure and poor semen quality or that the effect of welding is non-reversible within the rather short non-exposure period.
British Journal of Industrial Medicine, Aug. 1990, Vol.47, No.8, p.515-518. 13 ref.

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