Welding fume monitoring
The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies welding fume as a cause of cancer in humans (Group 1), so any business that welds needs to understand and control its welders' exposure. We measure exposure during normal welding tasks, compare the results with the workplace exposure standards, and give you clear, practical steps to reduce it.
A MAIOH-qualified occupational hygienist collects the samples with calibrated personal sampling pumps, using standard NIOSH methods (7300 and 7303). The samples are analysed by IANZ-accredited partner laboratories.
What we assess
- Personal air sampling for total welding fume and metals
- Individual metals: manganese, nickel and hexavalent chromium (Cr VI)
- Comparison with WorkSafe's workplace exposure standards
- Checks on how well your fume extraction (LEV) is working
- Recommendations on processes, extraction and respiratory protection
Materials and processes
What is in welding fume depends on the metal being welded and the rods or wire used. We assess mild steel, stainless steel and aluminium welding, and pay particular attention to manganese (which can affect the nervous system), nickel and chromium compounds (which can cause cancer) and ozone (which irritates the lungs).