On welding, wheezing, and whimsy.

The various exposures, hazards, and diseases that may be accounted by welders are described. The hazards of welding may be subdivided conveniently into acute toxic effects, chronic toxic effects, chronic respiratory effects, and carcinogenetic effects. Each is considered in turn and their effects on morbidity and mortality are discussed. The evidence suggests that welding is not a particularly hazardous occupation provided care is taken to limit exposure to the toxic effects of any fumes that are generated. Nonetheless, the technical aspects of welding are constantly undergoing change, and continual vigilance is necessary lest a new process introduces a formerly unrecognized hazard.