The Dangers of Underwater Welding

Underwater welding is a specialized type of welding that requires extensive training and unique skills. Underwater welders frequently work on offshore oil rigs and offshore pipelines when they are in need of repair. While the work can be very lucrative, it is arguably the most dangerous job in the country.

According to one study, underwater welders have the highest fatality rate of any occupation. While the Bureau of Labor Statistics does not track fatality rates of underwater welders as its own group, estimates in the industry put the figure at 15%. For comparison, other highly dangerous jobs such as loggers and fishermen have fatality rates of below 0.2%. That means underwater welders are more than 75 times as likely to die on the job as some of America's most dangerous occupations.

Dangers Faced By Underwater Welders

Underwater welders face substantial risks each time they are on a job. Many of those risks could prove fatal, while others can cause long-term health problems.

Here are some of the most common dangers faced by underwater welders.

• Electric Shock – Electrocution is the biggest threat to underwater welders. Special waterproof equipment must be used for all underwater welding jobs. It is essential that all equipment be properly tested and insulated prior to use.
• Explosions – Gas pockets created by the formation of hydrogen and oxygen pose a huge risk to underwater welders. If ignited, these pockets can result in lethal explosions.
• Drowning – A failure of any part of an underwater welders SCUBA gear could lead to drowning.
• Decompression Sickness – Also known as diver's disease, decompression sickness occurs when divers inhale harmful gases when moving between pressure zones. Extreme cases of decompression sickness can be fatal.
• Ear, Lung, and Nose Damage – Spending a lot of time in high pressure waters can lead to long-term ear, lung, and nose damage.
• Marine Wildlife – While not commonly attacked, underwater welders must be conscious of marine wildlife such as sharks and other potentially deadly creatures.

Preventing Underwater Welding Accidents

In order to reduce the likelihood of a fatal accident, underwater welders must be extremely cognizant of the dangers they face and be certain to follow safety protocol prior to and while performing any underwater welding job. If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in an underwater welding accident, contact the offshore injury attorneys at Arnold & Itkin to learn about your legal rights.