Working Conditions for Welding, soldering, and brazing workersWelding, soldering, and brazing workers often are exposed to a number of hazards, including the intense light created by the arc, poisonous fumes, and very hot materials. They wear safety shoes, goggles, hoods with protective lenses, and other devices designed to prevent burns and eye injuries and to protect them from falling objects. They normally work in well-ventilated areas to limit their exposure to fumes. Automated welding, soldering, and brazing machine operators are not exposed to as many dangers, however, and a face shield or goggles usually provide adequate protection for these workers. Welders and cutters may work outdoors, often in inclement weather, or indoors, sometimes in a confined area designed to contain sparks and glare. Outdoors, they may work on a scaffold or platform high off the ground. In addition, they may be required to lift heavy objects and work in a variety of awkward positions, while bending, stooping, or standing to perform work overhead. Although about 55 percent of welders, solderers, and brazers work a 40-hour week, overtime is common, and some welders work up to 70 hours per week. Welders also may work in shifts as long as 12 hours. Some welders, solderers, brazers, and machine operators work in factories that operate around the clock, necessitating shift work. More information on Welding, soldering, and brazing workers from The U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook Overview of Welding, soldering, and brazing workers occupation Number of Welding, soldering, and brazing workers in the U.S. Salary and earnings for Welding, soldering, and brazing workers Working conditions for Welding, soldering, and brazing workers Significant points for Welding, soldering, and brazing workers Training requirements for Welding, soldering, and brazing workers Labor Information Home | Occupational data by city | Search Rainforests | Madagascar | What's new |