Welding fume and work environment

Welding develops fumes, gases, heat and intense light that can all damage health over time. A good work environment is about knowing the risks and using the right safety measures every time — not just when it's convenient.

§What welding smoke is

Welding fume consists of very fine particles formed when metal and filler material evaporate and condense. The composition depends on what is being welded — and particularly stainless steel and surface-treated or galvanized material can produce fumes with substances that are extra harmful to inhale.

§Gases

Beyond particles, harmful gases can form and tank gases can displace oxygen in poorly ventilated spaces. Work in tanks, containers and confined spaces therefore requires special attention to ventilation and in some cases monitoring of the air.

§Extraction and ventilation.

The best protection is to remove smoke at the source with point extraction, so it never reaches the respiratory tract. Where point extraction is not possible, it is supplemented with good general ventilation and respiratory protection. The principle is to combat pollution as close to the source as possible.

• 01Local exhaust near the welding point removes smoke at the source
• 02Good general ventilation dilutes the remaining air pollution
• 03Respiratory protection protects where exhaust ventilation is insufficient
• 04Special care when working in narrow and enclosed spaces

§Radiation, heat and noise

Arc light emits powerful radiation that can damage eyes and skin and welding generates heat, sparks and often noise. Welding helmet with correct filter, fire-resistant clothing, gloves and if necessary hearing protection protect against these effects.

§Responsibility and habits

The employer is responsible for conditions being responsible but each individual welder is responsible for using the equipment correctly. Good habits — turn on extraction take protection put on assess the space — are what make the difference over an entire working life.