Working as an underwater welder, I’ve been asked countless times about the dangers of my job—specifically, how often welders die while doing this work. It’s not an easy topic, and I know people ask out of curiosity and concern. Being an underwater welder is a unique and risky career, but it also comes with the thrill of working in conditions most people never experience. So, In the next sections, I’ll explain the answer in detail, covering the specific risks we face and what it’s like to work under such extreme conditions.
Real Risks in Underwater Welding That Often Lead to Fatalities
To put it simply, yes, underwater welding does come with a higher risk than many other professions. Working with electricity underwater has obvious hazards, and if you add deep-sea conditions, you get a clearer picture of why this job can be risky. I’ve known welders who’ve been hurt or who have had close calls. In some cases, tragic accidents do happen.
Below I discuss the major dangers we face.
1. Risk of Electric Shock
Electric shock is one of the primary dangers in underwater welding. We use high-voltage equipment, and when you add water into the mix, there’s always a risk of an electric current going where it shouldn’t. This can happen if equipment fails or if there’s a break in insulation. Underwater welders wear special suits and use insulated tools, but even with these precautions, the danger remains. Electric shock can lead to severe injury or even death, making this a top concern for us.
2. Dangers of Decompression Sickness (“The Bends”)
Decompression sickness, also known as “the bends,” occurs when nitrogen bubbles form in the bloodstream due to rapid changes in pressure. This can happen when we ascend too quickly after being at great depths. If not managed properly, decompression sickness can cause joint pain, dizziness, or even be fatal. To reduce this risk, underwater welders must follow strict decompression schedules, ascending gradually and stopping at intervals to allow their bodies to adjust to the pressure.
3. High Water Pressure and Physical Strain
The pressure underwater increases with depth, and for underwater welders, this high pressure can take a toll on the body. Long periods of work in pressurized environments can lead to fatigue, joint pain, and stress on internal organs. Over time, the high-pressure conditions can have lasting effects, especially for those who work at deep levels regularly. This physical strain is one of the reasons why underwater welding is considered a physically demanding and dangerous profession.
4. Limited Visibility and Hazardous Environment
Working underwater means dealing with poor visibility, which can lead to accidents. It’s often dark and murky, and the currents can be strong. With limited sight, we have to rely on training and experience to navigate safely. This environment increases the risk of injury from sharp objects, entanglement in equipment, or unexpected obstacles. Limited visibility is a constant challenge, adding another layer of danger to our work.
5. Exposure to Toxic Fumes and Chemicals
Underwater welding releases gases that can be harmful if inhaled. Although we wear protective gear, the risk of exposure to these toxic fumes is still present. Inhaling gases like carbon monoxide can lead to dizziness or unconsciousness, putting a diver at serious risk if something goes wrong. Welders must take extra care to ensure they’re ventilating properly and using safe equipment to minimize exposure to these harmful substances.
6. Risk of Equipment Failure
Underwater welders rely heavily on specialized equipment, including oxygen tanks, welding tools, and diving suits. Equipment failure can be disastrous in deep water, where we depend on these tools for survival. If an oxygen tank malfunctions or a suit gets damaged, it can lead to life-threatening situations. Regular equipment maintenance is essential, but the risk of sudden failure remains, adding to the overall danger of the job.
Why Do We Still Do It?
Despite the risks, many of us choose this line of work because of the challenges and rewards it offers. Underwater welding is more than just a job; it’s a unique experience that combines skill, courage, and passion. The pay is good, but it’s also the sense of accomplishment that keeps us going. Working in conditions few others face brings a special kind of pride.
How Deep Do Underwater Welders Go?
Personal Review
From my personal experience, underwater welding is not for everyone. The dangers are real, and you have to be mentally prepared to face them every day. If you’re considering this career, make sure you understand what it entails and be ready for the physical and mental demands. For me, it’s a challenging yet rewarding job, and the risks are worth it because I love what I do. But this work requires full commitment and respect for the dangers involved.