What toxic chemicals and metals are given off by welding fumes?
Welding gives off fumes that contain toxic metals, including nickel, chromium, manganese, zinc, and cadmium. Gases are also produced during the welding process. These include carbon monoxide, which can deplete the air of oxygen in close quarters, and ozone, a lung irritant. The content of the welding fumes depends upon the composition of the welding rods, base materials, and the material that is being welded. See Welding Fumes and Gases.