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Protecting employees from hazardous substances in welding fumes: This important goal is also of central importance in shipbuilding. Whereas individual components are built in huge halls or docks, daily welding work increasingly takes place directly inside the ship, and this brings great challenges. 

According to the Federal Statistical Office, respiratory diseases accounted for 14.5 percent of all days of incapacity to work in 2020. This indicates that respiratory diseases are the third most common cause for an employee to take sick leave in Germany – after diseases of the musculoskeletal system and mental illnesses.

So that people and the environment are protected from hazardous substances, regulations are needed on how to deal with such substances. The Committee for Hazardous Substances (AGS) develops these regulations – and has done so for 50 years. What hardly anyone knows: The 20 volunteer members – who work in the chemical or pharmaceutical industry, in ministries or research institutions, for example – influence millions of people through their work. Welders also benefit from the Committee’s recommendations in terms of protective welding equipment.

In the body shop, the processing of aluminum-steel composites produces oxides and ozone, among other things. One of the many challenges: Identifying and eliminating potential hazards.
To keep risks low and minimize exposure to hazardous substances, the right technical protective measures are needed.

Bought a W3-certified extraction unit and played it safe forever? It's not quite that simple. In order to maintain W3 approval in the long term, for example, only original equipment components that have actually gone through the approval process are permitted. Above all, the use of original filters plays an important role.

A W3 certificate: This is what most manufacturers of welding fume extraction units want. Because behind this is a test mark that is only awarded to units that meet the highest requirements. In Germany, it is mandatory for some welding work. Internationally, it is now considered an important mark of quality. About the history and significance of one of the most important test marks for welders.

Around 95 percent of welding fumes is produced from additives – but this does not mean that it has to have the same composition. The welding process and the base material also play a role and determine, for example, whether hazardous particulate and/or gaseous substances are produced during welding. To kick off our materials series, discover what to look out for when welding structural steel.

Large components, changing welding workplaces, hazardous substances, some of which are carcinogenic: Metal construction poses special challenges for occupational health and safety. The complexity of applications often requires an effective mix of measures to protect employees. Which protective welding equipment brings the greatest benefit in operation depends on several factors.