AWS F3.2M/F3.2:2018

This document introduces the reader to various types of ventilation systems, including general supply and exhaust and local exhaust, for control of weld fumes. It contains or refers to information on air contaminants found in welding fumes, principles of system design and selection, and drawings that illustrate ventilation techniques.
Scope : 1. Introduction, Scope, and General Provisions 1.1 Introduction. A ventilation system consists of either a naturally, or mechanically, supplied and exhausted flow of air which can be used to control fumes and gases generated during welding or cutting operations. Mechanical ventilation systems are typically more consistent in their ability to control contaminants and are generally utilized when it is necessary to: (1) Control contaminants to meet occupational exposure limits (PEL, TLV, etc.); (2) Advance environmental stewardship by collecting emissions at the source, for disposal and recycle; and (3) Improve housekeeping by reducing settled particulates. 1.2 Scope. This guide describes recommended principles of ventilation to be used in facilities where welding and allied processes are performed. The primary objective of this document is to enhance the health and safety of all those found in a welding environment. Other objectives include the provision of information relevant to energy conservation and environmental compliance. This guide does not provide information on respiratory protection or specific precautions related to working in a confined space. Also, this guide does not address issues associated with combustible dust hazards applicable to ventilation systems. Information dealing with this issue can be found in NFPA 654, Standard for Prevention of Fire and Dust Explosions from the Manufacturing, Processing and Handling of Combustible Particulate Solids, and NFPA 484, Standard for Combustible Metals. Basic information related to a range of ventilation systems and techniques that can be used in a welding and cutting environment is provided here. Comparisons are drawn between techniques and highlight both the effectiveness and relative cost of each approach. It is intended that this information will assist in the identification and selection of an appropriate ventilation solution for a specific welding and/or cutting operation. 1.3 Units of Measure. This standard makes sole use of U.S. Customary Units. Approximate mathematical equivalents in the International System of Units (SI) are provided for comparison in parentheses or in appropriate columns in tables and figures. 1.4 Safety. Safety and health issues and concerns are beyond the scope of this standard; some safety and health information is provided, but such issues are not fully addressed herein. Sources of safety and health information include: American Welding Society: (1) ANSI Z49.1, Safety in Welding, Cutting, and Allied Processes (2) AWS Safety and Health Fact Sheets (3) Other safety and health information on the AWS website Material or Equipment Manufacturers: (1) Safety Data Sheets (SDS) supplied by materials manufacturers (2) Operating Manuals supplied by equipment manufacturers Applicable regulatory agencies, such as: (1) Occupational Safety and Health Administration (2) Environmental Protection Agency