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Are You Aware that the Workplace Exposure Standard (WES) for Welding Fume has Changed?

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The workplace exposure standard for welding fume has been reduced from 5 mg/m3 to 1 mg/m3

WES for Welding Fume: What has Changed?

Following new research and analysis, in January 2024, the WES Ministers agreed to an immediate reduction to the workplace exposure standard for welding fume, from 5 mg/m3 to 1 mg/m3.

This means that all Persons Conducting Business or Undertaking (PCBUs) will need to re-assess their existing welding fume control measures to in order to remain compliant.

Here are some key points to remember:

Identify all welding activities and the substances that are being used.
Assess the risk of welding fume exposure – What processes are being used? Who is in the work area? How long are they working? What concentrations of fume are being produced?
Review existing control measures – Do you have suitable extractors? Does the extractor have high enough airflow? Does the extractor have suitable filters? Does the extractor have a suitable sized capture hood? Do you have supplementary ventilation to dilute any residual fume not captured by the extractor? What PPE/ RPE is being used?
Talk to your workers - Ensure that they; understand the health risks, are aware of any changes to control measures, and have received relevant training.

*NOTE* It is important to emphasize that 1mg/3 does not represent an ‘acceptable’ level of exposure, it is the 'maximum' level of exposure, therefore ideally exposure would be below this threshold.

Not sure how to manage fumes in your work place?