An investigation of the experimental induction of hypersensitivity in the guinea pig by material containing chromium, nickel and cobalt from arc welding fumes.

Sensitization of guinea pigs by chromium, cobalt and nickel was compared by four methods. The most effective was the maximization test of Magnusson and Kligman. Sensitizing properties of particles from fumes of either manual metal arc (MMA) or metal inert gas welding were demonstrated. Potent sensitization was attributed to chromium.