Whether you’re a welding technician in the construction industry or work in a metalworking shop, you must manage and control hazardous fumes and gases during welding. 

At Consultex Environmental, we assess whether exposure to welding fumes at your organisation puts workers at serious health risks. We then recommend best practices and safety protocols to create a safer work environment. In addition to understanding the importance of controlling welding fumes and gases, it’s also crucial to be aware of the risk of asbestos exposure, especially when working with asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). 

In this blog, we’ll share expert tips for controlling hazardous fumes and gases during welding and highlight the importance of asbestos awareness, particularly in older buildings. Read on to learn how you can improve safety during welding and how our team can assist with asbestos awareness training Auckland-wide. 

Hazardous Fumes and Gases During Welding

Welding is a highly technical process that requires the right equipment and protective gear to prevent both short-term and long-term detrimental health effects. 

When metal burns, it releases tiny particles and toxic gases into the air, including carbon monoxide. These fumes can irritate the eyes, throat, and lungs and cause nausea, headaches, and fatigue. Long-term exposure can lead to health problems, including chronic lung diseases, cancer and more.

Testing for Welding Fumes 

At Consultex Environmental, we provide a range of services including welding fumes testing. Our expert team will work closely with you to determine if welding fumes are putting you or your workers at risk. 

We start by assessing your site and understanding your welding processes. Our team then conducts on-site welding fume testing using a mixture of electronic instruments and air sampling pumps to measure the exposure levels. This information will help us determine who is most at risk.  

After the testing and assessment, we’ll provide a tailored management plan that includes effective methods for controlling hazardous fumes and gases during welding. Some key tips might include: 

Always Wear Protective Gear 

Workers must wear the correct gear and PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) to protect themselves from toxic fumes. This includes respirators, protective masks, and eye protection. We’ll guide you in selecting the correct PPE suited to your specific welding processes and operating conditions. 

Ventilation is Key 

Good airflow and ventilation are essential in welding areas to reduce exposure to hazardous fumes and gases. We’ll recommend ventilation systems that effectively remove fumes directly from the source and enhance air quality. For higher-risk welding, we may suggest air filtration systems designed for these environments, such as HEPA filters and activated carbon filters. These advanced technologies remove harmful particles and gases from the air. 

Improve Your Work Layout 

We may suggest re-designing the layout of your workspace to optimise airflow. By separating work areas and keeping them spacious, you can prevent blocked ventilation ducts and ensure workers have sufficient fresh air supply. You can also add physical barriers, such as walls or screens, to trap and contain toxic fumes. 

Asbestos Awareness Training Auckland 

In addition to controlling welding fumes, it’s also important to consider the risk of asbestos exposure, especially in older buildings or equipment where welding takes place. 

Welding materials containing asbestos can release dangerous asbestos fibres into the air. Over time, exposure to these fibres can cause serious health problems such as asbestosis, mesothelioma and lung cancer. That’s why asbestos awareness and training is crucial. 

Whether you’re a construction worker, property manager, or business owner in the building industry, our asbestos awareness seminar will help you safeguard your site and employees. Our asbestos training course covers essential information, including the history of asbestos use in the industry, the risks involved, and the relevant laws and guidelines for managing these hazards. 

We provide comprehensive asbestos awareness training Auckland-wide to ensure your employees know how to handle asbestos safely if they encounter it in the workplace. Protect your organisation with our in-depth asbestos training and awareness programme. 

Contact Us Today 

Get in touch with our friendly team today for a free consultation and quote. We can recommend the best safety protocols, systems and equipment to keep your organisation safe during welding operations.

We’ll also organise an asbestos awareness seminar for your company to educate your staff about asbestos guidelines and safety methods in the workplace. Ensure a safe working environment for your employees today