**Welding Gases: Understanding the Short-Term Hazards and Their Immediate Effects**

The correct answer for most hazards associated with welding gases, like asphyxiation, is: **Happen in a matter of minutes** Here’s some additional context to help you understand why: 1. **Asphyxiation** happens when welding gases displace oxygen in the air or when harmful gases are inhaled, leading to a lack of oxygen. This can occur rapidly, within minutes, if the concentration of gases is high enough. 2. **Short-term effects** can occur but focusing on how quickly asphyxiation can manifest is more critical in emergency scenarios. 3. While it's true that some exposures might have effects that eventually go away, asphyxiation is an acute and immediate hazard that requires prompt action. 4. **Medication** cannot control asphyxiation; the primary control measures involve proper ventilation, use of appropriate safety equipment, and ensuring safe work practices. Ensuring good ventilation, using personal protective equipment (PPE), and always working in compliance with safety protocols are the best ways to prevent hazards associated with welding gases.