WLD/Hazards/TBT-WLD-007

Welding Fume Extraction and LEV

Welding & Fabrication › Hazards › Welding Fume Extraction and LEV

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Welding fume is a complex mixture of metal oxides, gases, and fine particles generated during welding.
The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies all welding fume as carcinogenic to humans.
Mild steel welding fume is now classified as a Group 1 carcinogen, not just stainless steel fume.
Local exhaust ventilation (LEV) captures fume at source before it reaches the welder breathing zone.
LEV systems include on-torch extraction, mobile fume units, fixed extraction arms, and downdraft benches.
General ventilation alone is not sufficient to control welding fume exposure to safe levels.
COSHH 2002 requires employers to prevent or adequately control exposure to hazardous substances including fume.
LEV systems must be examined and tested by a competent person at least every 14 months.
RPE is required in addition to LEV where fume exposure cannot be adequately controlled by extraction alone.
Welding on coated, painted, or galvanised steel generates additional toxic fumes requiring extra controls.

Prevent cancer	Welding fume is a confirmed human carcinogen. Without extraction, welders face significantly increased lung cancer risk.
Legal requirement	HSE issued enforcement expectation EH40 stating LEV or RPE must be used for all welding — general ventilation is not enough.
Lung disease	Beyond cancer, welding fume causes occupational asthma, metal fume fever, pneumonia, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Don't

DON'T weld without LEV or RPE in place — general ventilation is not enough.
DON'T position the extraction nozzle too far from the welding arc.
DON'T assume mild steel welding fume is safe; it is now classified carcinogenic.
DON'T block, kink, or obstruct LEV ducting or extraction hoses.
DON'T rely solely on RPE when LEV extraction is reasonably practicable.
DON'T weld on painted or galvanised surfaces without additional fume controls.
DON'T switch off extraction to reduce noise or because it feels draughty.
DON'T ignore symptoms such as coughing, breathlessness, or metallic taste.
DON'T skip LEV maintenance inspections or ignore the 14-month test interval.
DON'T eat, drink, or smoke in areas where welding fume may be present.

See also: Welding Safety Awareness (Comprehensive) | RPE Selection and Face Fit Testing

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