[TheForge] Electric welding and pacemakers

[Bruce]

I have no direct knowledge on the subject, but it is commonly known that
electric arcs emit broadband electromagnetic radiation.  An Internet search
turns up any number of articles on pacemakers vs. arc welding, but some
suggest that limiting amps or using DC only might reduce the risk -- but
don't quote me.

It wouldn't surprise me if effective shielding were possible to prevent
adverse effects, but aside from using a metal box -- a Faraday cage --
around the workpiece (or around yourself!), I couldn't suggest how to
accomplish this.

Of course, acetylene welding would not affect a pacemaker at all.

Bruce
NJ


On Mon, Oct 6, 2025 at 3:48 PM Jim Smith <jwmsmith64 at att.net> wrote:

> My cardiologist says I need a pacemaker.  When my father in law got one he
> was told he couldn’t use his stick welder anymore.  I think some may now be
> shielded from electromagnetic radiation.  Anyone have experience with this?
>
> Jim Smith
> Sent from my iPad
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