Creating Safer Workplaces

Recent Updates on Welding Fume Extraction and Health & Safety from the UK’s Health and Safety Executive (HSE)

Welding Fume Extraction and Health & Safety: Latest HSE Updates

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has recently issued significant updates on welding fume extraction and health & safety. These changes are designed to strengthen protection for welders across the UK. Since welding fumes are now recognised as a serious occupational hazard, businesses must act quickly to remain compliant with the latest regulations.

At The Fume Cupboard Company Ltd, we provide local exhaust ventilation (LEV) solutions and fume cupboards. These systems help laboratories, workshops, and educational facilities maintain compliance with both HSE welding fume guidance and COSHH standards.

Updated Welding Fume Extraction Standards

Back in 2019, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified welding fumes and UV radiation as Group 1 carcinogens. Consequently, the HSE introduced stricter controls for all welding activities.

Employers are therefore required to implement effective welding fume extraction across every process, including mild steel. By doing so, they not only comply with COSHH but also protect their workforce from long-term health risks.

👉 For more details, see the official HSE welding fume controls.

HSE Enforcement Expectations

In today’s regulatory climate, employers must go beyond basic safety measures. Adequate fume extraction systems and controls should be installed to minimise exposure, ensuring compliance with COSHH while protecting employee health.

Moreover, inspections and enforcement actions are becoming increasingly common. Failure to adopt the correct measures can result in severe financial penalties and legal consequences. Therefore, businesses are strongly encouraged to take proactive action rather than waiting for enforcement.

Occupational Lung Disease and Welding Risks

The HSE has also reported a rise in work-related lung diseases, such as chronic bronchitis and lung cancer. Long-term exposure without proper extraction or protection places welders at considerable risk.

In addition, evidence shows that employers who invest in effective control measures significantly reduce absenteeism and long-term liability.

👉 To expand your understanding, see BOHS welding fume guidance and HSENI welding FAQs.

On-Torch Extraction for MIG Welding

One highly effective control measure is on-torch extraction, which captures fumes directly at their source. For MIG welding in particular, this method proves far more efficient than relying solely on general ventilation.

Consequently, employers are encouraged to include this approach within their risk assessments to ensure compliance and safeguard worker health.

Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) Guidance

According to the HSE’s guidance, short welding tasks (under one hour) can often be managed with disposable FFP3 masks or half-masks with P3 filters.

However, when sessions last longer, the recommendation shifts towards air-fed respirators with a minimum Assigned Protection Factor (APF20). This ensures welders receive consistent protection throughout the working period.

Additional Methods to Control Welding Fume Hazards

Alongside LEV and RPE, employers should also consider complementary measures. These include:

  • Cold joining techniques – alternatives that produce minimal or no fume.

  • Low-fume welding methods – such as TIG welding.

  • Adequate ventilation – improving airflow to support extraction.

  • Workforce training – ensuring welders understand both the risks and correct use of control methods.

In addition, regular refresher training helps reinforce good practice, ensuring compliance remains consistent over time.

👉 For further insight, visit the British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF).

Protecting Workers and Staying Compliant

By investing in effective welding fume extraction, supplying the correct RPE, and providing comprehensive training, employers can reduce health risks significantly. At the same time, these steps ensure full compliance with HSE and COSHH requirements.

👉 For tailored advice, explore our LEV extraction systems and fume cupboards, or contact The Fume Cupboard Company Ltd today.