1. Burns from fires and explosions.  From manufacturing plants with highly flammable chemicals and oil products, to work in oilfields work outdoors often in bad weather and on dangerous explosive equipment such as pipelines and tank farms, welders are often required to work in a variety of environments that are at risk for explosions and fires. Burns are also caused from extreme heat and exposure to ultraviolet rays emitted by the welding process.
2. Welding Arc Flash Eye Injuries. Injuries to the eyes are common due to excessive heat or exposure to the intense ultraviolet rays that are part of the welding process, commonly called “arc eye.”
3. Falls. Lightheadedness due to inhalation of fumes puts welders at risk of falls on construction sites where welders are often required to work in very confined spaces, or on scaffolding.
4. Injuries caused by excessive fatigue because of overwork, from having to work multiple shifts or unregulated construction sites. In many cases, welders are also required to lift heavy objects and to work in awkward positions, such as standing and working overhead, or in a bent or crouched position, which can also lead to a greater potential for injury.

Understanding Welding Injury Risks

Welding is one of the most regulated areas in several industries, including the construction industry. The reason for heavy regulation is because welding is an extremely dangerous occupation.  The tremendous amount of potential risk is why the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has put in place so many regulations to protect welders. For example, welders are required to wear safety shoes and masks equipped with protective lenses designed to prevent burns and eye injuries.

Employers, contractors and subcontractors are responsible for worker safety.

It is also necessary for welders to work in properly ventilated areas, in order to minimize the risk of inhalation of gases and particulates that are produced during the welding process. In addition to providing welders and their assistants with the proper personal protective equipment and the proper training, employers and others responsible for the workplace are required to inspect and assess all aspects of the worksite.

Despite the heavy regulations designed to protect the health of welders and other workers, despite mandates on the part of Federal and Texas State Regulators, welding accidents continue to happen in nearly every industry, from oil and gas to construction. Many injuries associated with welding can be catastrophic and even lead to death on the job.

While many injuries have the potential to limit your ability to work, they can also have a negative effect on other parts of a welder’s life, causing both expensive medical bills and emotional pain and suffering. It is often necessary for the injured welder to undergo extensive medical treatment and even long-term rehabilitation, which can mean they are unable to return to work for an extended period of time; some take months or years to recover, and many become permanently disabled.

Welding Accident Lawyer

Whenever a worker has been injured in an accident that may have been caused by the failure of an employer or other responsible party to follow the regulations covering welding, that worker may be entitled to compensation by filing a claim against the owner or general contractor. You may even be eligible to file a work injury lawsuit even if you already receive workers compensation.

If you or a loved one have been injured in a welding accident, the Work Injury Attorneys at the Liggett Law Group have the skills and expertise to help you fight for your rights. Contact us to schedule a free consultation, and we will look at the facts to find out where you stand and what you may be entitled to.