Sydney-based safety product specialist, Australian Welding Supplies, has prepared a free resource detailing options that can keep welders and non-welders protected.
Carcinogenic welding fume can reportedly remain in the air for up to 48 hours after welding is completed. This means both welders and non-welders can find themselves at risk of welding fume exposure.
For more information, download the Working near welders brochure.
“In 2017, the International Agency for the Research on Cancer (IARC) reclassified welding fume as carcinogenic,” said Australian Welding Supplies.
“These risks apply not only to welders, but also the non-welders who work in close proximity to them.
“As such, it is important for workers and businesses to educate themselves on the dangers of welding fume, as well as the available protective options.
“Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) and the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) including Powered Air Purifying Respirators (PAPR) are highly effective product control options in limiting exposure to welding fume for non-welders.”