Besides local exhaust ventilation (LEV), required for all indoor welding, there are many complementary products available to ensure a healthy work place where welding fumes are concerned. These products are particularly suitable for when it’s not convenient to place an LEV system, such as outdoor spaces, or when current LEV systems are not adequate to control all fume exposure.

Taking the fume away at source

There are options available for taking away the fume at source. Fronius, for example, offers a fume extraction torch for both water and gas-cooled power sources (including a Euro connector option for any compatible welding machine) and an external fume extraction attachment that can be retrofitted to a Fronius TPS/i torch already purchased. Both the K4 fume extraction torch and the FumeEx extraction kit require a smaller, more portable, extraction unit or an installed workplace extraction system. The extraction and gas nozzle are two separate components so when these parts require replacement, they can be supplied and replaced individually. 

Fronius recommends that their fume extraction torches are used with the Fronius FumeEx Jet, a high pressure welding fume filter with filter cartridges, removable dust drawers and a maintenance-free vacuum generator in the base with soundproofing. The torches can also be used with any compatible extracting unit.

Respiratory protection 

Fronius also provides Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE), which can complement other forms of fume extraction to protect individuals against the inhalation of toxic fumes and ultra-fine particles, creating a safer working environment. RPE can also be used for outdoor welding. 

The Fronius VizorConnect is the only Bluetooth® enabled welding helmet, available in the UK, that can be used with the Fronius MagicWave 230i, TransTig 230i and the intelligent TPS/i welding power sources. The comfortable welding helmet not only has the capabilities to darken before the arc is ignited, regulate the shade level depending on the arc intensity and gives the welder six times the field of vision than conventional helmets, but can also protect welders from fume exposure thanks to the air purifying respirator. Certified with the highest filter quality, TH3P, and filtering out more than 99.8% of particles, the respirator system provides three different airflow levels and distributes the air flow between mouth and forehead inside the welding helmet. 

With lithium-ion technology you don’t need to worry about the battery running low either, as operating time is long on the standard battery provides 20 hours of use before charging. It even has a battery status and particle filter test with warning function to add to the intelligence and usability of the helmet.

We highly recommend visiting www.hse.gov.uk to ensure you are complying with the latest regulations concerning welding fume control, including thorough examination and testing of the systems in place.