Jim’s Cover Pass: Hazardous welding fumes - What about cadmium?

Q: Can you tell me if cadmium is worse than chromium in welding fumes?

A: There has been a lot of discussion over the last few years about providing adequate ventilation when working with stainless steels because of the health risks associated with chromium exposure. Unfortunately, in doing so we may have overlooked other elements such as cadmium.

By now we are certainly aware that hexavalent chromium is the toxic form of the element chromium. According to the OSHA Fact Sheet: Health Effects of Hexavalent Chromium, fumes from stainless steel welding and grinding operations containing hexavalent chromium may cause irritation to the respiratory system including runny nose, sneezing, coughing and nose bleeds if ingested at high levels. Lung cancer may occur down the road as a result of long-term exposure.

Cadmium, on the other hand, is often used as a coating on steel to prevent oxidation, and is found in various silver solder formulas. According to the AWS Safety and Health Fact Sheet No. 22, Cadmium Exposure from Welding and Allied Processes regarding cadmium exposure, “Fumes are poisonous and can kill. Overexposure may cause death.” Short-term exposure to cadmium fumes can cause headaches, nausea, dizziness, and other respiratory issues. Long-term exposure can lead to kidney failure, emphysema, and lung cancer. In fact, OSHA has defined cadmium as a carcinogen.

The short answer is yes, cadmium is a bit worse than chromium in welding fumes. A few other substances to be aware of that will cause respiratory illness and possible death are barium, cobalt, copper, manganese, nickel, silica, lead, and zinc. These may be found as part of the alloy or in certain paints and coatings.

It is always important in all welding, cutting, and grinding operations to have adequate ventilation and fume exhaust systems in place. Let’s stay healthy!

Welders should always be extra cautious when venting welding fumes as they work with materials such as stainless steel.