Methods For Controlling Hexavalent Chromium Dust Exposure
Consider source capture systems, tip extraction, and enclosures to minimize exposure and ensure compliance with safety standards.
Extraction Solutions for Dust Containing Hex-Chrome
What is Hexavalent chromium?
Hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)), a toxic form of chromium, is a known human carcinogen, particularly when inhaled, leading to increased risk of lung cancer and other cancers.
OSHA Regulations:
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recognizes hexavalent chromium as a carcinogen and has specific regulations to limit worker exposure.
Welding can produce Hex-Chrome and other toxic gasses
During welding, the high temperatures oxidize chromium in the metal to its hexavalent state (Cr(VI)), which is a toxic form of chromium.
Other Toxic Fumes and Gases:
Besides hexavalent chromium, welding fumes can contain other harmful substances like iron oxide, manganese, nickel, and other metal oxides.
Source Capture of Welding Fumes
The preferred method for capturing hex chrome dust is a Dust Collector or a Vacuum, with a High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter, which captures 99.97% of particles 0.3 microns in size.
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Wet Collectors
Consider wet collectors for safely collecting conductive metals, explosive, or impact-sensitive materials.
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Vacuum with Endless Bag (Longopac)
This is a completely sealed vacuuming operation where there is no ambient exposure of the dust once it enters the hose. The Industrial vacuums utilizes HEPA Filtration and a direct-bagging system where the toxic dust goes directly into a bag with zero exposure to the operator.
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Fume Exhaust Welding Guns
Torch Extractors that couple a narrow suction hose to the welding gun is an excellent way of source extraction that stops and starts each time you lull the torch trigger.
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Filter Media
Use high-efficiency nanofiber media with a tested MERV 15 or MERV 16 efficiency for primary dust collection filters.
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Ventilation
Consider ambient dust collection systems or fume extractors to mitigate fumes throughout the facility.
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Housekeeping
Prevent the spreading of dust and fumes by vacuuming regularly with a HEPA vacuum.
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Ambient Dust Collection
A good option for welding smoke is overhead ambient style units. One or two of these in a shop can can the air clean all day. Email us the dimensions of your shop so that we can calculate how many CFM you will need.
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