Journal of Ergonomics

Introduction: Welding is considered to be one of the main sources of occupational exposure to non ionizing radiations. The present study was conducted to examine the rate of occupational exposure to non-ionizing radiation in common welding processes.

Materials and Methods: In the present descriptive analytical study, occupational exposure to different types of non-ionizing radiations including electromagnetic fields with extremely low frequency and ultraviolet and infrared radiations were examined in five types of arc welding processes at the welding department of the technical and vocational training center of Malayer. Electric field intensities and magnetic field intensities were measured using the HOLADAY HI-3604 instrument and based on the ANSI/IEEE Std 644-1994 method. Ultraviolet and infrared radiation intensities were measured using Hagner-EC1 radiometer (made in Sweden).

Results: Electric field intensities and magnetic field intensities were lower than the exposure limits in the different types of welding processes examined. Nevertheless, the intensity of UV-B radiation exposure was higher than the exposure limits in the different types of welding processes examined, while UV-A radiation exposure was only higher than the exposure limits in arc welding. The results of measuring UV radiation intensities transmitted through protective goggles revealed the acceptable shade number of the lenses used. However, welders' clothing did not provide adequate protection. Moreover, the results showed that welders' infrared radiation exposure degree was much lower than the exposure limits.

Conclusion: The intensity of exposure to non-ionizing radiations was influenced by the type of welding process taken. Given the overexposure of welders to UV-B radiation in unshielded conditions, wearing clothes with an Ultraviolet Protection Factor of 50 is necessary for providing better protection.