Bibliometric Analysis of Publications on “Hazards and Health Effects Associated with Welding” From 2010 – 2023

Abstract

An overview of the hazards and health effects associated with exposure to welding fumes is provided in this paper through adaptations from various sources. The growing concerns around welding and its attendant health effects are valid as welding fumes are inherently hazardous and are composed of particulate matter from condensed metals and obnoxious gases such as Ozone which have been implicated in the aetiology and pathophysiology of many diseases including cancer. Information currently available from various published study works is described in the review. In accordance with the bibliometric analysis, "The United States" ranks as the most prolific contributor, with a large collection of works from active organizations such as the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). Additionally, author cooperation has increased recently and is more common in groups. Three hot themes in welding-related hazards and health effects—"human," "age," and "occupational exposure"—were identified across all keyword analyses. Furthermore, oxidative stress, occupational diseases, risk management, cohort studies, and air pollutants in welding were identified as new themes by the keywords analysis. To the extent that we are aware, this study is the first explicit bibliometric approach to visualize the research field of health and hazard impacts related to welding. It is helpful for locating hotspots in active research now and for speculating on prospective future research areas.