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New approaches to control welding fumes at their source: in the arc

GMAW, FCAW, MCAW are the most frequent arc welding processes used by a global population of welders estimated at approx. 11 million. Along with unique benefits, these welding arcs unfortunately can also emit hazardous fumes (particles), which have recently gained increased attention mainly for 2 reasons:

• Exposure measurements in welding workshops indicate that still many workplaces exceed existing OELs, despite technical measures like local fume extraction and room ventilation.
• IARC reclassified welding fumes as carcinogenic to humans in 2018, triggering OSH authorities to revisit existing regulations and consider additional measures to protect workers.

The call for new or additional prevention measures with higher efficiency was received by a welding industry which needs to evolve competitive against other joining technologies.

Ernst Miklos, European Welding Engineer, Linde
Presented At: CanWeld Conference 2024