Impact of Different Welding Techniques on Biological Effect Markers in Exhaled Breath Condensate of 58 Mild Steel Welders

Abstract

Total mass and composition of welding fumes are predominantly dependent on the welding technique and welding wire applied. The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of welding techniques on biological effect markers in exhaled breath condensate (EBC) of 58 healthy welders. The welding techniques applied were gas metal arc welding with solid wire (GMAW) (n = 29) or flux cored wire (FCAW) (n = 29). Welding fume particles were collected with personal samplers in the breathing zone inside the helmets. Levels of leukotriene B₄ (LTB₄), prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂), and 8-isoprostane (8-iso-PGF_2α) were measured with immunoassay kits and the EBC pH was measured after deaeration. Significantly higher 8-iso-PGF_2α concentrations and a less acid pH were detected in EBC of welders using the FCAW than in EBC of welders using the GMAW technique. The lowest LTB₄ concentrations were measured in nonsmoking welders applying a solid wire. No significant influences were found in EBC concentrations of PGE₂ based upon smoking status or type of welding technique. This study suggests an enhanced irritative effect in the lower airways of mild steel welders due to the application of FCAW compared to GMAW, most likely associated with a higher emission of welding fumes.

Acknowledgments

The WELDOX study was financially supported by the German Social Accident Insurance (DGUV). We gratefully acknowledge the field and laboratory teams; we thank R. Van Gelder, S. Gabriel, M. Mattenklott and the technicians of IFA, and all welders who participated.