Why Underwater Welding is Dangerous: Health Risks and Fatalities

Welding is a vital job that supports many industries like construction, car manufacturing, and aerospace. It involves joining metal pieces together using high heat and is crucial for building and repairing things we rely on every day. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are over 400,000 welding jobs in the U.S., and this number is growing as more skilled welders are needed.

However, welding is a risky job. Welders deal with extreme heat, harmful smoke, and the chance of getting burns or eye injuries, which can lead to long-term health problems like breathing issues and muscle pain. These dangers make welding one of the riskier jobs out there. These risks are even greater for underwater welders.

What is an Underwater Welder?

An underwater welder is a professional who specializes in welding tasks underwater, often on structures like oil rigs, bridges, ships, and pipelines. This role combines traditional welding skills with the demands of deep-sea diving.

Underwater welding is more dangerous than regular welding because it involves unique challenges. Welders face high water pressure, which can increase the risk of injury. Visibility underwater is often poor, making precision welding tricky. There’s also a significant risk of electric shock because water and electricity are involved, and the possibility of drowning or decompression sickness adds to the danger.

To become an underwater welder, certain skills and responsibilities are necessary:

Skills Required

• Expertise in various welding techniques, especially those adapted for underwater use.
• Professional diving skills, often requiring certification in commercial diving.
• Competence with specialized underwater welding tools and equipment.
• Strong problem-solving abilities to handle unexpected underwater challenges.

Responsibilities

• Carrying out inspections and repairs on submerged structures to ensure their integrity.
• Performing welding tasks in potentially hazardous environments.
• Adhering strictly to safety protocols to minimize the risk of accidents.
• Regularly maintaining and checking equipment to ensure it functions safely and effectively.

These requirements show that underwater welding is a demanding career, needing a mix of technical skills, bravery, and attention to safety.

The Dangers of Underwater Welding

Underwater welding is extremely risky, with one of the highest fatality rates in skilled trades. On average, there are about 6 to 13 deaths per 1,000 underwater welders each year. This number is significantly higher than many other professions, highlighting the serious dangers involved.

Here are some specific risks and health hazards faced by underwater welders:

Decompression Sickness (The Bends)

This occurs when a diver surfaces too quickly, causing nitrogen bubbles to form in their bloodstream. For instance, a welder might feel intense joint pain or dizziness, and in severe cases, it can lead to paralysis or death if not treated immediately.

Electric Shock

Since welding involves electricity, doing it underwater increases the risk of electric shock. Imagine a small piece of equipment malfunctioning, leading to dangerous currents running through the water, which can be fatal if safety measures aren’t followed.

Drowning

Despite training, divers face the constant risk of drowning due to equipment failure, strong underwater currents, or unexpected entanglements.

Explosive Hazards

The gases used in welding can create an explosive environment. For example, if gas accumulates in a confined underwater area, a spark can cause a dangerous explosion.

Long-term Health Issues

Long-term exposure to underwater conditions can lead to chronic health problems, such as hearing loss from constant noise, lung issues from breathing compressed air, and circulatory problems from high water pressure.

Why People Still Opt for Underwater Welding

Even though underwater welding is risky, many still choose this path because of the attractive compensation. Here’s why some find it worth the risk:

High Salary

Underwater welders can make between $54,000 and $160,000 a year, depending on their skills and where they work. This is more than many other trades offer.

Bonuses and Overtime

Welders often get extra pay for hard projects or irregular hours. Bonuses and overtime can significantly boost their earnings.

Health Benefits

With the job’s risks, having good health insurance is vital. Companies usually offer extensive coverage, including medical, dental, and vision care.

Retirement Plans

Many companies provide solid retirement plans, like 401(k)s, often with matching contributions, helping welders secure their financial future.

Training Opportunities

Employers invest in their welders by providing training and certifications, ensuring they are up-to-date with the latest safety and welding practices.

Travel

Some jobs offer the chance to travel and work in different places, adding an element of adventure to the job.

These benefits make underwater welding attractive to those willing to take on its challenges.

Is It Worth Becoming an Underwater Welder?

Choosing to become an underwater welder is a significant decision, balancing serious risks with great rewards. The job is dangerous, with threats like decompression sickness, electric shocks, and the risk of drowning. These dangers make it one of the riskiest jobs out there. However, the financial benefits are appealing. High salaries, bonuses, and good health benefits can lead to a comfortable lifestyle.

For those who love a challenge and can manage the risks by following safety rules, underwater welding can be both exciting and rewarding. Yet, this choice shouldn’t be taken lightly. It’s important to weigh the dangers against the financial rewards and unique experiences the job offers. Whether it’s worth it depends on your personal goals and how much risk you’re willing to take. Ultimately, it’s about finding a balance between the excitement and the hazards of the job.