RISK ASSESSMENT OF WORKER EXPOSURE TO METAL FUME PRODUCED IN WELDING PROCESS

Abstract

Welding is the principle process in many industries. Toxic fumes and gaseous are formed during welding process, such as chromium (Cr), lead (Pb), nickel (Ni), cadmium (Cd) and beryllium (Be). The objective of this research evaluated the risk of the workers in 7 people exposed to heavy metals and workers behavior in the workplace. The concentrations of total dust, Cr, Pb, Ni, Cd and Be were measured by Inductively coupled plasma by NIOSH Method 7301. Cr and Ni mean concentrations (respectively 3.125 and 2.75 µg/m³) were below OSHA standard value, but the amount of metal were still higher than observed in general population. This research evaluated the behavior of workers to avoid exposure to metal during work and found that most workers did not practice regularly or did not practice at all. Therefore, workers received a long-term amount of metal that produced by welding fumes, It could also result in long-term health effects. Our results can be used as a guideline for introducing risk management measures for workers in the welding process.