Environmental and biological monitoring of exposure to metal fumes among welders

Abstract

Introduction: Nowadays, welding and related jobs are common jobs. Exposure to metal fumes is one of the major risks during welding. The type of welding, the nature of the metal, etc. are influential factors on rat of exposure to metal fumes. The aim of this study was to evaluate exposure to metal fumes of welding by respiratory and bilogicaly samples, and assess cellular DNA damage. Methods and materials: This study was conducted among welders and control group. Air samples were taken from the breathing zone of welders to check the level of exposure to metal fumes. For biologically monitoring of exposure to metal fumes, the amount of iron, chromium and nickel in urine samples of welders was measured. The amount of DNA damage in the oral cells of welders assessed using the micronucleus test. The correlation between the fume concentration in the urine samples and the amount of cell damage was checked using the Pearson (Spearman) correlation statistical test and their linear relationship was checked with the linear regression test. Results ترجمه بیش از حد طولانی است و ذخیره نمی‌شود The results of the study showed that exposure to nickel and iron in electric arc welding, chromium in argon welding were higher than the standard limits provided by ACGIH organization. Also, iron concentration in electric arc welding and CO2 in urine samples were higher than biological standard limits. The results of examining DNA damage and cell damage showed that in all three types of welding, the amount of DNA damage and cell damage was significantly higher than the control group (P<0.05). Also, the results showed that there is a weak linear relationship between the chromium concentration in urine samples and cell damage. Conclusion: Welders are exposed to welding fumes and theirs health are at risk. The micronucleus assay is as suitable noninvasive methode for monitoring toxicity of exposur to metal fumes. It is necessary for health policymakers to consider the necessary monitoring and supports to implement control measures to reduce exposure to welding fumes.