Identifying Training Needs and Occupational Hazards Among Welders: A Cross-sectional Study in the Metal Manufacturing Industry

Abstract

Background: Welding is an essential industrial process that poses risks such as vision, hearing, and respiratory problems. Ensuring compliance with safety standards is critical to reducing these hazards. Objectives: The present study aimed to identify welders' training needs to reduce workplace safety violations. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in 2024 in the metal equipment manufacturing industry in Isfahan. Data were collected through occupational health evaluations, analysis of welding-related accidents over the past five years, and observations of welders' safety behavior. Results: Vision impairments affected approximately one-third (34) of welders, while nearly half (46) experienced hearing loss. Respiratory issues were reported by 38 of welders. Major causes of accidents included eye injuries from grinding, bums, radiation exposure, and falling objects, with failure to use personal protective equipment (PPE) being a key factor. Conclusions: Occupational hazards largely stem from inadequate safety training and inconsistent use of PPE. Targeted training and strengthening safety culture are vital to reducing violations and improving workplace safety. The failure to use PPE was identified as a major cause of workplace accidents. Inadequate protective measures and poor workplace organization further increased these risks.