Common Hazardous Fumes

Welding Fumes

Welding fumes are a byproduct of welding certain metals together. Metals that are commonly used in welding operations include aluminum, antimony, arsenic, beryllium, and cadmium, among others. Acute exposure to welding fumes can result in eye, nose, and throat irritation; dizziness; and nausea. Prolonged exposure can cause lung damage and various types of cancer. Welding operations are most commonly used in shipbuilding.

Coal Tar Pitch

Coal tar pitch is a black or dark brown liquid with a strong odor that remains after the distillation of coal tar. In the maritime industry, coal tar pitch is used as a base for coatings and paints. Symptoms associated with coal tar pitch exposure include dermatitis and bronchitis. Long-term exposure is linked to lung cancer, kidney cancer, and skin cancer.

Dipping and coating operations

Dipping and coating operations involve using a dip tank containing a liquid other than water to do any of the following tasks:

• Clean an object
• Coat an object
• Alter the surface of an object
• Change the character of an object

Participating in dipping and coating operations puts workers at risk for chemical burns and inhaling toxic chemicals and substances.

To learn more about Shipyard Chemical Hazards visit our Shipyard Chemical Hazards & Toxic Substances Online Training web page.