Welding can cause various burns, from minor to severe, due to direct contact with hot materials, sparks, or intense light and radiation. Knowing how to address these injuries is important for recovery.
Immediate Care for Skin Burns
Skin burns from welding result from thermal exposure or ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) radiation. First, move away from the heat source and remove any clothing or jewelry near the affected area, as these items retain heat. Immediately cool the burn with cool (not cold) running water for at least 10 to 15 minutes to reduce swelling and pain. Avoid ice, as it can cause additional tissue damage.
After cooling, gently clean the affected area with mild soap and lukewarm water to remove debris. If blisters form, do not break them; they serve as a protective barrier against infection. If a blister ruptures, clean the area gently and apply an antibiotic ointment.
Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage discomfort and reduce swelling. Apply a non-stick, sterile bandage or clean cloth loosely over the burn to prevent infection and keep the area clean, changing it daily or if it becomes wet or soiled. Aloe vera gel can also soothe the skin and promote healing if there are no open wounds.
Addressing Arc Eye
“Arc eye,” medically known as photokeratitis, is a common welding injury affecting the eyes. This condition results from unprotected exposure to intense UV radiation emitted by a welding arc, akin to a sunburn on the eye. UV rays damage the cornea, the clear outer layer. Symptoms typically appear several hours after exposure, often ranging from 3 to 12 hours later.
Common symptoms of arc eye include intense pain, a gritty sensation, and abnormal sensitivity to light (photophobia). Other indications may be watery eyes, redness, swollen eyelids, blurred vision, and sometimes a headache.
If these symptoms occur, rest the eyes in a low-light or dark room and avoid rubbing them, as this can worsen irritation or introduce bacteria. Applying a cool, wet compress over closed eyelids can help soothe discomfort. Remove contact lenses immediately to allow the eyes to heal. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage discomfort.
When to Seek Professional Medical Care
Knowing when to seek professional medical attention for welding burns prevents complications and ensures proper healing. For skin burns, seek medical consultation if the burn is severe, affecting deeper layers, causing significant blistering, or resulting in charring or whitening. Burns covering a large area, or those on sensitive regions like the face, hands, feet, groin, or major joints, also warrant immediate medical evaluation. Signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, pus, or persistent pain, indicate a need for professional intervention.
For arc eye, while symptoms often resolve within one to two days, persistent or worsening discomfort after 24 hours suggests medical attention is needed. An eye doctor can diagnose corneal damage and may prescribe antibiotic eye drops to prevent infection or anti-inflammatory medication to reduce pain. Repeated incidents can lead to chronic inflammation, permanent corneal damage, and an increased risk of serious eye conditions like cataracts. Prompt assessment by an eye specialist is important for vision changes or if symptoms do not improve.
Preventing Welding Injuries
Preventing welding injuries involves consistent adherence to safety protocols and using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). Wear a welding helmet with the correct shade level for the specific activity to shield eyes and face from intense UV radiation and flying debris. Protective clothing, including flame-resistant jackets, long-sleeved shirts, pants, and gloves, helps protect skin from thermal burns and UV exposure.
Proper ventilation in the work area reduces the inhalation of harmful fumes and gases. Use non-combustible screens or barriers to protect others from stray sparks and radiation. Regularly inspecting and maintaining welding equipment also minimizes the risk of electrical or other burns.