Members Area
     
T: +44 (0)114 551 8170
E: ssas@bssa.org.uk

Category: Welding Fume Hazards

Environment, Health & Safety

  1. Does the chromium in stainless steel contain ‘chrome 6’ (Cr6+ ) and is this a potential health hazard

    The valency states of chromium, including trivalent and hexavalent chromium are outlined. The valency, (oxidation state), of chromium, as an alloying constituent of stainless steels, is 0, (zero). The chromium in solid stainless steels should not be regarded as a health hazard, but care should be taken with the fumes from welding stainless steels.

  2. Fume associated with welding and cutting stainless steels

    Both flux- and gas-shielded processes for welding stainless steels generate fume. So does plasma arc cutting. Fume consists of both particles and gases, including ozone. Concerns that fume, particularly particles containing hexavalent chromium, is a cause of cancer have not been supported by extensive studies, although there is a slight excess of lung cancers among all welders. Therefore it is sensible to limit contact with welding fume and there are statutory requirements.

  3. Gas Tungsten Arc Welding Electrodes for Stainless Steels

    This technical paper by Dr Mike Fletcher, Metallurgical and Welding Consultant to Huntingdon Fusion Techniques Ltd, explores the development in the composition of electrodes used in the GTAW, (TIG), process. He concludes that refractory oxide doping is beneficial, in particular lanthana and ceria.

  4. Safe Use of Nickel in the Workplace

    The Third Edition of Safe Use of Nickel in the Workplace was released in May 2008 to inform
    downstream users of nickel about the anticipated outcome of the European Nickel Risk
    Assessment.

← Back to previous

↑ Top