This info. was sent to the original person asking about a mother and welding,
but I thought the info would be helpful in the archives if any further
questions come up...I remember attending one of Dr. Hale's conferences a few
years ago and I was quite impressed with how he said the breast are very
protective from many contaminants, not all, but many, so I think this is
still out for discussion...but welding is not a job I would want a mother
risking her health and her baby's over...
Anne WilliamsRN BSN IBCLC
 Pensacola, Florida

The following from another nurse I contacted:

I am an RN at a chemical company and was forwarded your message
     regarding your client that is breastfeeding and is a welder.

     I briefly read through 2 detailed books regarding welding given to me
     by our Industrial Hygiene Coordinator. Breastfeeding is not mentioned
     in the books, but they do list many hazards regarding welding. I would
     consult with a Industrial Hygienist or contact NIOSH (National
     Institute for Occupational Safety and Health) and see if they can
     research it.

     In summary from the NIOSH book "Welding, Brazing, and Thermal
     Cutting":

     Welding processes are potentially hazardous because they require
     intense energy to change the physical state of metals. The chemical
     changes associated with such energy may result in emissions of toxic
     fumes, dustd, gases and vapors; they may also generate exposures to
     physical agents that include noise, vibration, heat, electrical
     curent, and infrared ultraviolet, ionizing, and radio frequency
     radiation.

     In summary from the book "Welding Safety and Health" by Dr. David
     Howden:

     Inhalation as a route of entry into the body is particularly important
     to welders because of the rapidity with which a toxic material can be
     absorbed in the lungs, pass into the bloodstream, and reach the brain
     and other vital organs. Most of the contaminants that welders are
     exposed to are airborne.
     (From this paragraph I would think that the toxic material would also
     be in breast milk!)

     Margie Jacoby RN

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