AWS F1.1:2018

This document aids the reader in the proper technique for sampling welding fumes and gases in the workplace. Emphasis is placed on positioning the sampling device and calibration of the equipment.
Scope : 1.1 Scope. This standard describes procedures for sampling fumes and gases generated by welding and allied processes. Because it is limited to health hazard evaluation, the standard is primarily concerned with sampling at the workerâ??s breathing zone (see 4.1). It also describes procedures for general area sampling of fumes and gases. The sampling methods described in this standard apply to the sampling of solid particulate matter as well as the gases liberated during welding and allied processes. Gases generated during welding may include, but are not limited to, the following: (1) Ozone (O3) (2) Carbon Monoxide (CO) (3) Nitric Oxide (NO) + Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) = Oxides of Nitrogen (NOx) (4) Gaseous Fluorides This publication is intended for use by personnel who are responsible for sample collection and evaluation of the environment of personnel involved with welding and allied processes. It provides the most widely recognized, safe methods for the sampling to be used in the evaluation of airborne concentrations of fumes and gases commonly formed during welding. Where appropriate, analytical methods have been referenced. While not generally present around most welding operations, it is possible to encounter toxic phosgene gas where degreasing or cleaning activities involving chlorinated hydrocarbons are carried out in close proximity to welding. Antispatter compounds may also contain chlorinated hydrocarbons. When vapors from these materials enter the atmosphere around the arc, a reaction between ultraviolet radiation from the welding arc and these vapors can produce phosgene. Since phosgene levels as low as 2 ppm can cause serious health impairment or even death, it is important to prevent vapors from any chlorinated hydrocarbon from entering the welding area. Consult the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for any cleaning products used in close proximity to welding processes. Sampling for phosgene is outside the scope of the procedures described in this standard. This standard makes sole use of the International System of Units (SI). 1.2 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. Safety and health information is available from the following sources: 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) SDSs supplied by materials manufacturers (2) Operating Manuals supplied by equipment manufacturers Applicable Regulatory Agencies Work performed in accordance with this standard may involve the use of materials that have been deemed hazardous, and may involve operations or equipment that may cause injury or death. This standard does not purport to address all safety and health risks that may be encountered. The user of this standard should establish an appropriate safety program to address such risks as well as to meet applicable regulatory requirements. ANSI Z49.1 should be considered when developing the safety program.