Working Near Welders - What Are The Risks?

In early 2017, the International Agency for the Research on Cancer (IARC) reclassified welding fume as carcinogenic. These risks apply not only to the welders themselves but also to the non-welders who work in close proximity to them. As such, it is important for all workers and businesses to educate themselves on the dangers of welding fume, as well as the available protective options. 

Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) and the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) including Powered Air Purifying Respirators (PAPR) are highly effective product control options in limiting exposure to welding fume for non-welders.