In 2017, the International Agency for Research on Cancer changed the classification of all welding fumes from Group 2B “possibly carcinogenic to humans” to Group 1 “carcinogenic to humans. These welding fumes can contain a range of carcinogens including metallic oxides, silicates and fluorides.
The reclassification came following sufficient evidence that welding fumes cause lung cancer.
This reclassification has forced many welders and workplaces to rethink their current approach to welding fumes and how to manage exposure on a day-to-day basis. Welding processes must be subject to risk assessment, and the hierarchy of controls should be applied to these risks.
Time to rethink your approach to welding fumes?
Follow our easy guide 'Clearing the Air on Welding Fumes' to ensure you are managing risks and worker exposure for your application. Our guide explores:
- Workplace exposure standards.
- Managing dangerous levels of exposure.
- Short-term and long-term health implications.
- Applying the hierarchy of control to welding risks.
- Suitability of fume extractors and choosing the best solution for your application.
- Suitability of personal protective equipment including disposable respirators, reusable respirators and powered air purifying respirators.
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