One thing you do NOT want to do is weld on cadmium-plated stuff.
Galvanized (zinc) fumes will (eventually) give you "metal fume fever" but if I'm not mistaken, welding on cadmium is far, far worse and can even kill you. (Yeah, I know about "Paw Paw," the guy who died from zinc fumes, but he vaporized something like 10 tons of zinc in a kiln in his enclosed shop ... on the other hand, I've welded on galvanized steel for many years and never even felt sick from it, although I do try to stay upwind of it.)
Good points,
I have NOT so far welded anything Cadmium plated
Which is good to know the dangers what you're welding on
I HAVE welded plenty of Galv Pipe Railing in a shop I worked for for many years
and as you said, have never felt any effects from it
Perhaps it's like an allergy type of thing
Some people are more reactive than others
IE: I dont get poison oak and literally grab the leaves and strip them off the plant,
While others get it all over their body
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When our crew was going to do a lot of Galv railing for say a Motel or Hospital
Our boss would break out a Gallon of whole milk and make us drink a good glass full before starting
LOL, ok then, that may prevent the effects of Metal Fume Fever but does it prevent the damage?
Such as accumulation of toxic heavy metals?
I got used to holding my breath for about the duration of half a rod of stick,
Flip hood, allow to aerate, hold breath, finish weld
There's fumes regardless of if its toxic that get under the hood
Since you're not really, exerting yourself, you can get used to holding your breath for quite awhile during welding.
Same as when I spray paint something, Hold breath, Spray, let wind carry the fumes, breathe.
