Welding fumes and forced positions make welding a job that can have long-term negative effects on health. Unfortunately, the risks are still underestimated and welders are often exposed to great dangers. Companies may be afraid that the cost of properly protecting their workers is too high. They associate protective measures with extra work or complicating the welding process. But are these concerns justified? And what are the best options to minimize welding hazards?
I have invited a special guest to my Weld Lounge to discuss this exciting topic: Dr. Sharma of RWTH Aachen University. As a research engineer, he is a true expert in the field of arc welding and his expertise covers the current state of research and development.
The right protection at the right time
How can you protect your welders from everyday hazards? Are there effective solutions that can be implemented quickly and cost-effectively? To structure our discussion of possible welding safety measures, we have used the STOP principle. Anyone involved in occupational safety has certainly heard of it. The purpose of this principle is to classify the different types of protective measures in a fixed order. Each letter represents a different type of measure:
- Substitution
- Technical protective measures
- Organizational protective measures
- Personal protective measures
According to the STOP principle, the first step – substitution – is to look for ways to replace dangerous processes with less dangerous ones. Then technical and organizational measures such as safety fences or stricter safety regulations are considered. The last step is to consider whether personal protective equipment such as goggles or helmets is needed.
Important: Always follow this sequence! Otherwise, you may have to replace established safety measures with others. By following this sequence, you avoid both uncertainties and duplication of work.
Innovative technologies for increased safety
One of the greatest dangers in welding is carcinogenic welding fume. There are several approaches to fume protection that Dr. Sharma and I will discuss, as well as technological developments in this area. Many of these new developments in welding fume protection are not yet known to welders or their supervisors. Unfortunately, this is why welding for extraction at source in particular are still not widely used.
In addition to the topic of welding fume extraction there are also many innovative new developments for worker protection. From new types of filler materials to the use of special torches or ventilated helmets.
Dr. Sharma and I will be answering questions about health and safety in welding in my Weld Lounge. There will be exciting insights into the current state of research and development and possible protective measures for the future. If you find the topic as interesting as I do, then please take a look here:
You can watch the Weld Lounge in full length on my YouTube channel from 19th January 2024.
Are you interested in other topics?
In general, every visitor to the WELDPROF® website can ask me specific questions via »Ask the WELDPROF®«. I am happy to answer them by e-mail or in one of my video formats. Interaction with interested parties from the world of welding and joining technology is expressly desired!
