Welders must be protected against hazardous welding fumes. Depending on the welding environment or how and what is welded, welders can be protected by systems for source extraction and general filtration and ventilation. Also, they can be protected by respiratory protective equipment (RPE), such as welding helmets with fresh air supply. Supplied air respirators are known to provide the best all-around protection for the welders themselves
Nowadays, everybody knows that welding fumes are very dangerous and that all kinds of protective measures should be taken and respected during work. In other blogs on this site, you can read more about those dangers and risks. But is everybody really aware of the importance of those protective measures such as PPE and local exhaust ventilation? The answers of welders themselves are surprising…
In buildings where welding is carried out, temperature control and problems of airborne contamination are important, and the provision of clean air increases. Although fresh air is usually supplied by general ventilation, the sole use of general ventilation for airborne pollutant control in welding is usually ineffective.
To extract welding fumes and protect the welder, at source ventilation is always the most efficient and safe way. In addition, all kinds of measures can be taken to reduce welding fumes and its risks.
Welding fumes contain oxides of the metals in the materials being welded. If not protected by personal protection equipment and proper ventilation measures, a welder and his surrounding are exposed to several health risks by the oxides of the metals.
Welding of stainless steel is a common process, which has increasing raised concerns for the working environment. Chromium is next to nickel one of the basic alloy element of all groups of stainless steels. During the welding process, chromium is converted to its hexavalent state, Chromium (VI).
Welding, glittering sparks and graceful curling fume are inseparable. It's almost a romantic image, with hard-working welders in the middle. However, the romance evaporates quickly if you understand what welding fumes are and what its composition may be.
Contact our specialists now and get answers on all your questions regarding clean air.
