ABSTRACT
Recent epidemiology studies have reported a statistically significant association between increases in air-borne respirable particulate matter and increased mortality and morbidity from respiratory diseases. Environmental assessment during metal arc welding process in our study revealed higher levels of oxidants [O[3] and NO[2]] and particulate matter [Zn, Cd, Ni. TSP] than the recommended threshold limits values. This study demonstrated higher prevalence of respiratory affection among welders, compared to the controls. Reduction of all ventilatory functions was observed among welders. Longer duration of exposure to welding fumes was found to add to the reduction of these functions. Because welders constitute an important proportion of the workforce, their specific health problems should he considered an important issue. We recommend improvement of environmental control measures to comply with the international standard and educational programs to raise the awareness for safe welding processes