HEALTH & SAFETY
Respiratory protection: A long- term investment in health Respiratory issues often go undetected until they become severe. As the team points out, respiratory protection can sometimes be overlooked because its effects aren’t immediately visible: “Respiratory protection is often overlooked because the health impacts aren’t immediate. But by the time respiratory damage is apparent, it’s often too late.” Chronic exposure to fumes and particles can lead to serious respiratory conditions, underscoring the importance of effective respiratory PPE. Emphasizing that selecting the
right type of respirator is critical, with Face Fit testing essential to ensuring a secure fit. They advise welders to look for EN12941-certified equipment with a TH3 classification for maximum filtration, especially in demanding environments. Also recommending air quality assessments to determine the appropriate filter type for specific hazards, whether it’s dust, fumes, or gases. One of the team recalls an insightful moment during a Face Fit test at a shipyard, where a welder, proud of his eye safety practices, stated, “I only have one pair of eyes.” To which the response was: “And how many pairs of lungs do you have?” This question served as a reminder that respiratory protection is as critical as safeguarding visible areas.
Routine checks: Ensuring equipment is ready for every shift Routine maintenance is essential for PPE effectiveness. Helmets, respirators, and other PPE should be checked carefully before each shift to ensure they’re fully functional and in good condition. Regular checks help welders avoid preventable exposure to hazards, supporting their health and safety daily.
“But by the time respiratory damage is apparent, it’s oſten too late.”
Looking to the future: The evolution of welding PPE The experts anticipate continued advancements in PPE, with a focus on ergonomics, comfort, and usability. One sees future systems with enhanced airflow control, while another sees PPE becoming more user-friendly and efficient without sacrificing effectiveness. Lighter, more compact helmets with improved headgear design for balanced weight distribution and even potential ADF connectivity with welding machines for a streamlined experience are also envisaged. They also predict that as safety standards continue to rise, respiratory protection will become a universal requirement in welding environments. “Future PPE focuses on comfort, with
more functional features that improve safety without adding complexity,” Kemppi’s PPE experts explain. “High- quality PPE does more than simply meet compliance—it preserves health and can save lives. Reliable welding helmets and respiratory systems are essential investments, enabling welders to work confidently and safely. For both employers and welders, PPE should be seen as an essential investment in worker well-being, with a focus on quality, maintenance, and protection every step of the way.”
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