Hello friends,
I’m an underwater welder working here in the U.S., and one of the questions people always ask me is:
“Have you ever been attacked by a shark?”
My honest answer? No — and honestly, it almost never happens.
Shark attacks on underwater welders are extremely rare, and in this blog, I’ll explain everything in simple and easy words — so you don’t need to worry or guess.
Is Underwater Welding Dangerous Because of Sharks?
Let me be clear—underwater welding is risky, but not because of sharks. The real dangers come from electric shock, drowning, explosions, and pressure. But yes, since we work in the ocean, the fear of sharks is always in people’s minds.
Are Shark Attacks on Underwater Welders Common?
Not really.
Shark attacks on underwater welders are very rare. Most of us work in controlled environments like shipyards, ports, oil rigs, and bridges. These areas usually have a lot of noise, machines, and human activity — which actually scare sharks away.
Yes, sharks are out there in the ocean. But they don’t randomly go after people unless they’re provoked or confused. And when you’re working underwater with loud tools, bubbles, and a diving suit — you don’t look like a fish to them.
Any Real Cases of Attacks?
There are very few reports of shark attacks on commercial divers — and even fewer on underwater welders.
In most cases, if a diver ever saw a shark, it just passed by and left. Sharks are curious, not hungry for humans. According to many divers and underwater welding veterans, shark sightings happen, but actual attacks are nearly unheard of.
Do We Get Scared?
To be honest, yes, sometimes we do feel nervous — especially during deep sea jobs. The ocean is huge and unknown. But we don’t spend time in open, shark-heavy waters unless it’s a special offshore project. And when we do, we have training, safety gear, and a team always watching.
We also use equipment that makes a lot of noise — and sharks usually avoid it.
Why Don’t Sharks Attack Welders?
Sharks usually attack when they are confused or feel threatened. But during underwater welding:
1. We wear special diving suits and helmets
2. We make a lot of noise
3. We are in areas that are not natural hunting grounds for sharks
Most of the time, sharks don’t come near. And even if they do, they are usually just curious, not aggressive.
What Keeps Us Safe?
Here’s what protects us underwater:
1. Proper training – We learn what to do if a shark is nearby.
2. Surface teams – There’s always someone watching from above.
3. Special suits – Some suits reduce the chances of attracting animals.
4. Location choice – Most jobs are in places where sharks don’t hang around.
5. Noise from tools – The sound scares away sea creatures.
So in short, safety is always the priority, and shark risk is very low.
How Much Do Underwater Welders Make In Ohio?
MY Final Thoughts
Being an underwater welder is tough and risky — but not because of sharks.
The real challenges come from cold water, low visibility, heavy tools, and long hours. But the job is rewarding and exciting if you love the water and know what you’re doing.
So if you’re thinking about joining this career, don’t let the fear of sharks stop you.
Focus on your training, follow the rules, and you’ll be just fine.