RR733 - In visor testing
New types of welding visor are becoming increasingly popular amongst welders. These fit much closer to the face than the old type of visor and usually contain quick reaction glass that darkens as soon as the welder 'strikes up' and UV radiation is emitted. Current recommended methods for sampling welding fume beneath visors are unsuitable because of the large size of the sampling head, which will not physically fit behind the new type of visor. The aim of this work was to assess the performance of a smaller sampler that has been designed by HSL to fit comfortably underneath the new types of close fitting welding visor. This locates close to the mouth and therefore samples airborne particles in the worker's immediate breathing zone thereby giving a measure of 'true' exposure. The work set out specifically to:
- Determine how accurately the in-visor sampler estimates actual exposure to welding fume during welding.
- Determine how accurately the in-visor sampler estimates actual exposure to grinding dust during grinding and fettling work with the eye guard lowered and raised.
- Investigate the effects of visor type on sampler performance ie compare exposure measurements made with the old style and new style close fitting visor.
- Compare the performance of the in-visor sampler with IOM samplers located on the lapel.
This report and the work it describes were funded by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). Its contents, including any opinions and/or conclusions expressed, are those of the author alone and do not necessarily reflect HSE policy.
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