Welding Stainless Steel Health Hazards. The welding of stainless steel is of particular concern due to the generation of fume which amongst other species contains nickel and hexavalent chromium. Hazards depend on the type of welding the types of metals and coatings and the welding work practices being used.
Health Effects Eyes Sharp edges on solid products may cause cuts or lacerations. Stainless steel may create more. Stainless steel as a solid and shipped is not likely to present an acute or chronic health effects.
The process of TIG welding of metals like stainless steel has several vectors for risk.
Increased cancer risk has been noted in occupations other than welding. Hazards depend on the type of welding the types of metals and coatings and the welding work practices being used. Chromium is converted to its hexavalent state CrVI. Carbon monoxide gas can form posing a serious asphyxiation hazard.