WLD/Hazards/TBT-WLD-016
Welding Fume Extraction and LEV Requirements
Welding & Fabrication › Hazards › Welding Fume Extraction and LEV Requirements
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Welding Fume Extraction and LEV Requirements
Welding fumes have been classified as carcinogenic to humans. All welding processes produce fumes containing metal particles, gases, and other harmful substances that can cause lung cancer, asthma, and metal fume fever. The HSE now requires that effective fume extraction or control measures are used for all welding activities — working outdoors alone is no longer considered adequate protection. Local exhaust ventilation at the point of welding is the primary control measure.
Key Hazards
Lung cancer from chronic exposure to carcinogenic welding fume particles
Occupational asthma from inhaling sensitising metals in welding fumes
Metal fume fever causing flu-like symptoms after exposure to zinc or galvanised coatings
Carbon monoxide and ozone in welding fumes causing headaches and respiratory distress
Control Measures
- Use local exhaust ventilation positioned within 200mm of the welding arc to capture fumes at source.
- Ensure LEV systems are properly maintained, tested, and examined every 14 months as required by COSHH.
- Select the correct RPE when LEV alone cannot reduce exposure below the workplace exposure limit.
- Position yourself upwind of the welding plume and avoid leaning over the weld to minimise inhalation.
- Use general mechanical ventilation in enclosed areas as a supplement to local exhaust extraction.
- Ensure welding screens do not trap fumes and that air circulation around the work area is maintained.
- Attend health surveillance including lung function testing if you regularly carry out welding work.
- Use the lowest fume-generating welding process and consumables suitable for the job specification.
- Report any respiratory symptoms including cough, wheeze, or breathing difficulty to occupational health.
Remember
- Welding fumes are classified as a Group 1 carcinogen — they cause cancer in humans.
- Local exhaust ventilation must be used for all indoor welding and is strongly recommended outdoors.
- Working outdoors alone is no longer accepted by the HSE as adequate fume control.
- LEV equipment must be tested and examined at least every 14 months under COSHH requirements.
- Metal fume fever from welding galvanised steel is preventable with proper extraction and RPE.
- Early reporting of respiratory symptoms gives you the best chance of preventing permanent damage.
Applicable Legislation: Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH) · Workplace Exposure Limits (EH40) · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
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