Understanding the type and concentration of weld fume in a facility is the first step in either maintaining or achieving compliance. Industrial hygienists work with companies to conduct exposure assessments through site evaluations and air sampling, which can be a company’s baseline for change. In most cases, improving air quality isn’t limited to one solution, nor is it a one-time event — it is an ongoing process that requires continued attention.

Following OSHA’s Hierarchy of Controls for welding fume control, companies have four prescribed steps they can employ to establish a clean, safe and compliant work environment: