An Analysis of Welding Fume Exposures During Construction-Based SMAW Tasks

Abstract

This study investigated a construction worker’s exposure to manganese concentrations that were encountered during shielded metal arc welding (SMAW) processes. Multiple air samples were collected inside and outside of the welder’s face shield to measure contaminant concentrations over the course of various eight-hour work periods. The collected air samples were eventually laboratory analyzed for total respirable dust, iron oxide, and manganese. The measured air concentrations were compared to regulatory exposure limits, which were set by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), as well as recommended American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) limits. The analysis of the collected samples indicated that manganese concentrations inside of the workers face-shield tended to be higher than concentrations outside of the face-shield. Based on the OSHA and ACGIH exposure limits, the sampled worker was unlikely to be overexposed to manganese, iron oxide and respirable dust. To minimize the potential for workers’ welding fume exposures during SMAW processes, welding activities should be performed on non-confined areas and the workers’ face-shield should be positioned away from the higher concentrations of convective fumes. Additionally, the act of combining both welding and non-welding tasks is recommended to help minimize the workers’ exposure to welding fumes.