
1.4. VAPOURS AND GASES CAN BE
DANGEROUS
Arc welding and allied processes produce
welding fume which may pollute the
atmosphere surrounding the work. Welding
fume is a varying mixture of airborne gases and
ne particles which, if inhaled or swallowed,
constitute a health hazard.
The degree of risk is depend on:
• the composition of the fume;
• the concentration of the fume;
• the duration of exposure.
A systematic approach to the assessment of
exposure is necessary, taking into account the
particular circumstances of the operator and
the ancillary worker who can be exposed.
Welding fume may be controlled by a wide
range of measures, e.g. process modications,
engineering controls, methods of work,
personal protection and administrative action.
First it is necessary to consider whether
exposure can be prevented by eliminating the
generation of welding fume altogether. Where
this cannot be done, measures for reducing
the quantity of welding fume generated
should be investigated, after which the
control of welding fume at source should be
considered. The use of respiratory equipment
should not be contemplated until all other
possibilities have been eliminated. Normally,
respiratory protective equipment should be
used only as an interim measure. There will,
however, be circumstances where, in addition
to ventilation measures, the use of personal
protection can be necessary.
1.4.1. VAPOURS AND GASES. ADDITIONAL
PRECAUTIONS
• Welding operations can involve generation
of vapours and gases that are hazardous
to health. Inhaling the vapours should
be avoided. Keep your head away from
vapours during welding operations. Ensure
proper ventilation and/or mechanical
welding exhaust draught to keep vapours
and gases away from the breathing zone.
• When welding is carried out in a conned
space, operators should only be permitted
to weld when other persons, who have been
instructed and who are able to react in case
of an emergency, are in the immediate
vicinity.
• In closed rooms or in certain circumstances
during outdoor operations, it may be
required to use individual equipment for
the protection of the welder’s airways, e.g.
a respirator. Additional safety measures
are also required when galvanized steel is
welded.
• Welding operations must not be performed
in the vicinity of chlorinated hydrocarbons
generated during degreasing, cleaning or
spraying operations. Heat and radiation
generated by the arc may enter into a
reaction with vapours of solvents, which
may lead to the formation of phosgene – a
highly toxic gas..
• The shielding gas used during arc welding
may force the air out of a room. This may
lead to a health hazard or even death.
Proper ventilation, especially in closed
rooms, should always be provided, to
ensure appropriate amount of air that is
indispensable for safe breathing.
1.5. NOISE CAN BE HARMFUL
In the welding environment, damaging levels
of noise can exist. Continued exposure to
a high noise level on the unprotected ear is
injurious. The noise levels should be reduced
to the lowest practicable level.
High levels may be tolerated for very short
periods of time by wearing adequate ear
protection in accordance with the national or
local regulation.
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SPARTUS Easy TIG * USER’S MANUAL
ENG