Welding fumes are a complex mixture of metallic oxides, silicates, and fluorides. These fumes form when metal is heated above its boiling point, creating fine particles that can pose significant health risks when inhaled. The specific composition of welding fumes varies depending on the type of metal being welded and any surface coatings present. Despite their small size, these particles are highly toxic and can be more dangerous than they appear.
Health Risks of Welding Fumes
Welders exposed to these fumes can experience a range of health problems, depending on the duration and intensity of exposure. Short-term effects may include dizziness, nausea, and irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat. Prolonged exposure can lead to more severe health issues, including:
- Lung Damage: Chronic exposure can cause respiratory illnesses like pneumonitis and decreased lung function.
- Nervous System Disorders: High levels of metal exposure can impair the nervous system, potentially leading to tremors and cognitive issues.
- Kidney Damage: Some metals, like cadmium, can be toxic to the kidneys.
- Cancer: Long-term inhalation of welding fumes has been linked to lung, larynx, and urinary tract cancers.
Types of Fumes Produced During Welding
The exact composition of welding fumes depends on the materials used. Common emissions include:
- Carbon Dioxide: Released from flux decomposition.
- Carbon Monoxide: Produced when carbon dioxide shielding gas breaks down in arc welding.
- Nitrogen Oxides: Formed from the intense heat of the welding arc reacting with atmospheric nitrogen and oxygen.
- Hydrogen Chloride and Phosgene: Created when ultraviolet (UV) light reacts with chlorinated hydrocarbon vapours, such as those from degreasing solvents.
- Fumes from Coating Breakdown
- Surface coatings on metals can also release toxic fumes, including:
- Polyurethane Coatings: Hydrogen cyanide, formaldehyde, isocyanate vapours, carbon dioxide, and carbon monoxide.
- Epoxy Coatings: Carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide.
- Vinyl Paints: Hydrogen chloride.
- Phosphate Rust Inhibitors: Phosphine gas.
Protecting Welders from Fume Exposure
To protect welders from these hazards, it is crucial to implement proper fume extraction and ventilation systems. If welders experience symptoms like dizziness or difficulty breathing, they should leave the work area immediately and seek fresh air. Long-term prevention strategies include installing at-source extraction and filtration systems, as well as maintaining a well-ventilated workspace.
Nederman Fume Extraction Solutions from Envirox
Envirox supplies a comprehensive range of Nederman extraction arms, mobile filter units, and dust collectors, each designed to effectively capture welding fumes:
Mobile Dust Collector Units:
- Nederman FilterBox Range: Versatile units for welding fume extraction. They can be stationary, mobile, or wall-mounted, and come with PW13 replacement filters, offering 99% filtration efficiency across 13m².
- Nederman FilterCart Range: Compact portable extractors with optional HEPA filters for maximum efficiency. The FilterCart W3 model complies with strict W3 legislation from BGIA and provides 99% extraction efficiency.
Fixed Extraction Arms:
- Nederman Original Arm: Customizable for various workshop environments, with 360° rotation and flexible placement. Available in lengths from 2m to 4m, suitable for ceiling, wall, or bench mounting.
- Nederman NEX HD Arm: Heavy-duty arms for high-temperature and high-airflow applications, ideal for heavy engineering and metal fabrication. Available in 2m, 3m, 4m, and 5m lengths, with 360° manoeuvrability.
By combining Nederman’s high-quality equipment with Envirox’s extensive industry expertise, businesses can ensure a safer, healthier workplace for their welders.
