How to Prevent Inhaling Welding Smoke

Inhaled smoke from welding is a workplace danger that you can avoid with proper safety practices and instruction. Beginners to the welding world can take a few steps to prevent themselves from inhaling welding smoke on the job or at home.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

1. Position yourself properly. Beginners should make sure their head is out of range of the fume plume and in the opposite direction of airflow. This way, the smoke is not blowing into your face.
2. Wear a mask or respirator when working with welding equipment. Some masks contain activated charcoal, which helps keep out odors and zinc oxide. Make sure that the mask fits properly to prevent smoke inhalation.
3. Use a capture device to contain welding smoke and prevent it from reaching the welder's lungs. Beginners using a filter system must stay within range of it to ensure proper filtering. This area is generally slightly less than a foot from the device's end.
4. Install a downdraft work table. These come in various sizes and have a ventilation system built in. Add overhead ceiling fans over the downdraft work table to make the system even more effective.
5. Attach a vacuum nozzle to your welding gun. Although guns with these nozzles are slightly bulkier, they draw in welding smoke, so you don't have to worry about staying within range of a filter or correctly position yourself.

Tips & Warnings

• Always consult a doctor immediately if you inhale welding smoke.