Welding is the most economical, efficient and common way to permanently join metals in industry today. When welded, two or more pieces of similar metals are fused together by the use of a filler metal, heat, pressure or both to form a strong joint. Once completed, the welded joint is as strong as or stronger than the pieces from which the joint is formed. There are more than 100 different ways to weld metals together. With so many different ways to weld, types of metals, and filler materials comes many hazards such as flying particles, harmful dust, smoke, fumes, heat and light radiation.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), in 2014 there were approximately 400,000 welders in the United States with a projected growth rate of 4.4 percent for the next ten years. With that number of welders and number of hazards associated with welding, the BLS has determined the rate of injuries and illnesses is higher than the national average.