I have a welding operation that uses 2% Thoriated Tungsten electrodes. We
have been using the electrodes for years. The welding fume is aspirated up
into a HEPA filtration system to capture the smoke particles. The other day
we received a set of electrodes with a warning "Danger May Cause Cancer" (as
per CalOSHA). I looked up Tungsten and found a PEL and NIOSH has a method,
but what do I do for the Thorium particles. They tell me they are
radioactive.
I'm not a radiation safety officer, but I understand their are PEL for
radiation exposure. Should I get badges? Is 2% very low. The MSDS and mfg.
of the rods is pretty unknowledgeable.
Ricardo Aldana
Mgr. EHS
MAJ