Content reviewed by:
Alex Shulman
Welding is widely considered to be one of the more dangerous professions. Welders spend most of their time dealing with extreme temperatures, fumes, and scorching hot metals in an effort to melt, bend, and fuse materials together. As one might expect, this can make for some dangerous working conditions. Add in poor ventilation and limited space and it could be a recipe for disaster. This is especially true if a welder lacks the necessary training and experience to do their job well.
If you ever find yourself in a welding accident, a New York City welding accidents lawyer at Shulman & Hill can help you. We have the necessary experience to help our clients get the compensation they need in the aftermath of a welding accident.
We can assist you through every step of the legal process, including filing a compensation claim. Our attorneys understand the New York workers’ compensation laws thoroughly. Schedule your free legal consultation today.
What Can Cause a Welding Accident?
Welding is a fabrication process where two or more materials (usually metals or thermoplastics) are conjoined by way of extreme heat. This heat can make materials softer and more malleable so that a welder can fuse objects together. Because of the scorching hot metal and extremely high temperatures, welders can face serious risks in their workplace including:
Electrocution
Electrocution is one of the most common accidents that welders may face. Although we often picture welders wielding powerful flames to fuse objects, an equally popular method known as arc welding yields similar results with electricity.
When two metal objects have a voltage difference and are touched together, the result can often be a powerful electric shock. No matter the method of welding, it is essential to proceed with caution and follow all necessary rules and guidelines.
Gas and Fume Exposure
It is not uncommon for welders to spend at least part of their day inhaling welding gases and fumes. This can include minerals like manganese, base metal coatings, base metals, or even metal oxide compounds. These minerals can cause many respiratory illnesses if left untreated. When welding, make sure there is enough ventilation around your workspace and wear a mask to avoid inhaling all of the toxic gas and fumes associated with the job.
Excessive Noise
It is estimated that welders may be exposed to an average noise level of 85 decibels when on the job. If they are not provided with proper ear protection, hearing loss becomes a serious possibility. It is also possible that flying debris from the job can get into the ear canal and cause permanent hearing loss.
Optical Hazards
An oversaturation of sparks and hot droplets of liquid metal can fill the air and injure the eyes of a welder. Additionally, welders may also be at risk of flash burns and welder’s flash. These are conditions that are caused by the infrared and ultraviolet radiation from the electrical arc that comes naturally during the welding process. Wearing proper eye gear is essential for avoiding vision impairment and other optical hazards.
Difficult Working Conditions
It is not uncommon for welders to work long hours. To make matters worse, these long hours often happen in cramped environments. When working in these tight spaces, a welder’s body may be in an awkward position for long periods of time. Although this may not seem like a legitimate concern, these working conditions can cause strain muscles and ligaments over time. In many cases, welders may develop stress injuries as a result.
Hot Metals
The extremely hot, molten metal that welders deal with on a daily basis can cause injuries as well. This molten metal, hot slag, and other dangerous materials can cause life-threatening burns and injuries if used improperly.
If you are injured by any of these hazards while working as a welder, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Once you have done so, you should seek legal representation to help support your case. Our team of lawyers at Shulman & Hill has worked with numerous clients over the years and can provide you with legal counsel to help you pursue compensation.
What Injuries Can a Welder Suffer in a Welding Accident?
Welders are exposed to a great deal of danger each day. A highly qualified welder knows how to mitigate most of these dangers to keep themselves and others safe. However, when something goes wrong, there are several injuries a welder can experience, including:
- Welders’ Parkinson’s Disease
- Crushed appendages
- Injuries of the musculoskeletal system
- Skin lacerations
- Nerve damage
- Brain damage
- Lung damage
- Hearing loss
- Severe burns
- Electrical shocks
- Damage to the eyes, vision loss, and even blindness
If you have experienced any of these welding injuries while at work, you should contact a welding accident attorney in New York City to help handle your case. If the welding accident is severe, you may need to be hospitalized. In this scenario, bills will likely start to pile up. In some cases, it may be impossible to return to work and earn your normal salary. Our team can help you pursue any compensation that you may be entitled to for these losses.
