Welding fumes

Exposure to any welding fume, including mild steel welding fume, can cause lung cancer and maybe kidney cancer.

Uses​

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Welding is a fabrication or sculptural process that joins materials, usually metals or thermoplastics, by using high heat to melt the parts together and allowing them to cool causing fusion. Welding is distinct from lower temperature metal-joining techniques such as brazing and soldering, which do not melt the base metal.​

Recommended control measures​

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• Plan the work – User should place the item and themselves so they do not place their head in the plume / fumes ​
• Carry out the work in a well-ventilated area – consider the other items in the area and if the plume is not dispersed easily local exhaust  ventilation (LEV)should be used​
• The work is often sporadic and can vary depending on the person's role and the project. However, due to the nature of the health effects, careful consideration should be given to sharing the work and ensuring there is sufficient recovery time for the individual ​
• Provide RPE – After all other control measures are in place respiratory protective equipment (RPE) will still be required. Masks will need to be fitted for the individual and are not the same as basic welding masks that protect the eyesight from arc eye / welder flash and the skin from the radiant heat

Health surveillance ​

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If this a regular part of someone's job description, low-level lung function health surveillance may be a reasonable precaution.

Chemical safety library

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> Read more about control measures for chemicals in our chemical safety library