Metal fume fever is an occupational illness occurring when individuals inhale fine metal particles or metal oxide fumes. It is often described as a flu-like condition, primarily affecting workers in industries where metals are heated to high temperatures, such as welding, galvanizing, brazing, soldering, smelting, and foundry work.
The condition is most frequently associated with exposure to zinc oxide fumes, commonly found when welding galvanized steel. However, other metals like copper, magnesium, aluminum, iron, silver, gold, platinum, and chromium can also cause it. Metal fume fever is generally considered a temporary and self-limiting illness.
Identifying the Symptoms
Symptoms of metal fume fever typically emerge several hours after exposure, often appearing 4 to 12 hours later, which can mean they surface at night after a workday.
Common symptoms include:
Fever
Chills
Fatigue
Muscle aches
Headache
Nausea
Dry cough
Distinctive metallic taste in the mouth
These symptoms are usually transient and resolve relatively quickly, typically within 24 to 48 hours after exposure stops.
Managing Metal Fume Fever
Managing metal fume fever primarily involves supportive care aimed at alleviating symptoms. The immediate step is removing oneself from the environment where metal fumes are present to prevent further exposure and allow recovery.
At home, rest and adequate hydration are important. Over-the-counter medications can help reduce fever and relieve muscle aches. It is generally not necessary to seek medical attention unless symptoms are severe, persistent, or if there are concerns about more serious respiratory issues like shortness of breath, wheezing, or chest pain.
If medical attention is sought, a doctor will typically conduct a physical examination and may ask about occupational history to help confirm the diagnosis. They might also perform tests such as a chest X-ray or blood tests to rule out other conditions like pneumonia, although chest X-rays are often normal in cases of metal fume fever.
Avoiding Future Exposure
Preventing metal fume fever relies on effective strategies to minimize exposure to metal fumes.
Ventilation
Proper ventilation in workspaces where metal fumes are generated is a primary method of control. This can involve using local exhaust ventilation systems that capture fumes at their source or improving general ventilation within the work area to dilute airborne contaminants. Aiming for a minimum of four air changes per hour in a workspace is often recommended to help with fume dispersion.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Personal protective equipment (PPE), particularly respirators, plays a significant role in preventing inhalation of metal fumes when other controls are insufficient. Respirators such as N95 or P100 particulate filters are commonly used for welding applications, and it is important that they are properly fitted to each worker to ensure maximum protection. In situations with very high concentrations or in confined spaces, a supplied air respirator may be necessary.
Industrial Hygiene Practices
Good industrial hygiene practices also contribute to preventing exposure. This includes regular cleaning of work areas to remove accumulated metal dust and monitoring air quality to assess fume concentrations. Educating workers about the risks of metal fume fever, its symptoms, and the specific preventive measures they should take is additionally important.