Primary Smelting and Refining of Copper

Comments

Copper smelting was associated with lung cancer from arsenic exposure. [BC Cancer Agency]

Description

This U.S. industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in (1) smelting copper ore and/or (2) the primary refining of copper by electrolytic methods or other processes. Establishments in this industry make primary copper and copper-based alloys, such as brass and bronze, from ore or concentrates.

Category

Manufacturing

NAICS Code

331411

Job Tasks

High risk job tasks associated with this industry:

• Smelt or cast lead
• Smelt or refine zinc or copper
• Worked in smelter for years with heavy exposures to sulfur dioxide and metal fumes