Can MIG Welding Cause Skin Cancer?

MIG (Metal Inert Gas) welding is a widely used welding technique that involves the use of a consumable wire electrode and an inert gas to shield the weld pool from atmospheric contamination. While MIG welding is an efficient and versatile method, there are concerns about its potential to cause skin cancer. This comprehensive guide will delve into the technical details and expert-level insights on the relationship between MIG welding and skin cancer.

Welding Hazards and Skin Cancer

Welding, in general, exposes workers to a variety of direct hazards, including high heat, intense radiation, and the inhalation of carcinogenic welding fumes. These exposures can lead to various health issues, including respiratory, cardiovascular, and reproductive problems. Dermal toxicity from welding-associated ultraviolet radiation (UVR) is also a significant concern.

Ultraviolet Radiation Exposure

Welders are exposed to the full UV spectrum, including UVA, UVB, and UVC radiation, which is artificially generated by the welding arc. This UVR can result in erythema (redness) of the welder’s unprotected skin, particularly in the head and neck region. The severity of such erythema or burns depends on several factors, including:

  1. Distance from the source of the UVR
  2. Susceptibility of the welder’s skin
  3. Use of protective clothing and equipment
  4. Duration of exposure
  5. Wavelength of the UVR

Factors Affecting UVR Exposure

The type of welding performed can also influence the amount of UVR produced. Generally, gas metal arc welding (GMAW), also known as MIG welding, is believed to produce the most UV radiation, while plasma arc welding produces the least.

Additionally, the presence of certain metals in the welding fumes, such as chromium, nickel, zinc, cobalt, cadmium, molybdenum, and tungsten, can sensitize the skin to UVR exposure. Furthermore, UVR can reflect off painted walls and ceilings, potentially exposing welders to harmful radiation even when using protective devices.

Skin Cancer Risk and Welding

can mig welding cause skin cancerImage source: Mig weld example

The link between MIG welding and the development of skin cancer is not well-established, and the available research presents mixed findings.

Emmett et al. Study

A study by Emmett et al. observed that welders often experienced skin erythema and small scars from burns, but they did not find a direct link between welding and the development of skin cancer. However, the study did not include an examination for nevi (moles), which are associated with a significantly greater risk of developing melanoma.

Ocular Melanoma and Welding

The evidence linking welding with ocular (eye) melanoma is more established. Case-control studies have shown that arc welders are at an increased risk of developing ocular melanoma, possibly due to their increased exposure to UVR.

Danish Cohort Study

A Danish national company-based historic cohort study found that the adjusted hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for skin cancer (all types) were 0.99 (CI 0.94–1.04) for welders, indicating no statistically significant difference in skin cancer risk between welders and the external reference group. However, the study did find that long-term exposure to metal arc welding may be related to an increased risk of basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and actinic keratosis (AK) located at the neck.

Protective Measures for Welders

While the link between MIG welding and skin cancer is not conclusively established, it is essential for welders to take appropriate protective measures to minimize their exposure to UVR and carcinogenic welding fumes.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Welders should use the following PPE to protect themselves:

  1. Welding gloves: Leather or flame-resistant gloves to protect the hands and forearms from heat, sparks, and UV radiation.
  2. Welding jacket and pants: Flame-resistant clothing that covers the entire body, including the neck, to prevent skin exposure.
  3. Welding helmet or face shield: A helmet or face shield with the appropriate shade of lens to protect the face and eyes from the intense light and UV radiation.
  4. Sunscreen: Broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high sun protection factor (SPF) should be applied to any exposed skin.

Ventilation and Fume Extraction

Proper ventilation and the use of fume extraction systems are crucial to minimize the inhalation of welding fumes, which may contain carcinogenic compounds.

Regular Skin Examinations

Welders should undergo regular skin examinations by a dermatologist to monitor for any changes or abnormalities that may indicate the development of skin cancer.

Conclusion

While welding, including MIG welding, exposes workers to UVR and potential carcinogens, the direct link between MIG welding and skin cancer is not well-established. However, the risks of ocular melanoma and other skin conditions, such as BCC and AK, are more evident. To mitigate these risks, welders must use appropriate personal protective equipment, ensure proper ventilation, and undergo regular skin examinations. By taking these precautions, welders can minimize their exposure to potential skin cancer-causing factors and maintain their health and safety.

References:

  1. Ultraviolet Radiation, Welding and Possible Risk of Skin and Ocular Malignancy
  2. Workplace Cancer: Welding
  3. Occupational Exposure to Welding Fumes and UV-Radiation: Possible Effects on Skin
  4. Occupational Exposure to Metal Welding Fumes and the Risk of Skin Cancer: A Nationwide Cohort Study