Metal Fabricating Industry
A number of processes found in metal fabricating workshops can generate dust, fume, smoke and oil mist particles which can be hazardous to human health if left in the atmosphere.
Fumes from welding, laser cutting, plasma cutting, dry machining, grinding, polishing and linishing can cause a range of respiratory diseases. These include occupational asthma, pneumonia, cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and ‘metal fume fever’.
COSHH Regulations for Metal Fabricators
COSHH Regulations require all airborne contaminants to be effectively controlled using the Hierarchy of Controls. A safety alert issued by the HSE in February 2019 advised that all welding fume can cause cancer, and welders should therefore be protected from exposure by using effective control measures at all times. Find out more.