Mechanical local exhaust ventilation may be by means of either of the following:
(1) Hoods. Freely movable hoods intended to be placed by the welder as near as practicable to the work being welded and provided with a rate of airflow sufficient to maintain a velocity in the direction of the hood of 100 linear feet per minute in the zone of welding when the hood is at its most remote distance from the point of welding. The rates of ventilation required to accomplish this control velocity using a 3-inch wide flanged suction opening are shown in the following table:
Welding zone | Minimum air flow1 cubic feet/minutes | Duct diameter inches2 |
4 to 6 inches from arc or torch— | 150 | | 3 |
6 to 8 inches from arc or torch— | 275 | | 3 1/2 |
8 to 10 inches from arc or torch— | 425 | | 4 1/2 |
10 to 12 inches from arc or torch— | 600 | | 5 1/2 |
1 | When brazing with cadmium bearing materials or when cutting on such materials increased rates of ventilation may be required. |
2 | Nearest 1/2-inch duct diameter based on 4,000 feet per minute velocity in pipe. |
(2) Fixed enclosure. A fixed enclosure with a top and not less than two sides which surround the welding or cutting operations and with a rate of airflow sufficient to maintain a velocity away from the welder of not less than 100 linear feet per minute.
[Statutory Authority: RCW
49.17.010,
49.17.040,
49.17.050, and
49.17.060. WSR 15-24-100, § 296-24-71505, filed 12/1/15, effective 1/5/16; Order 73-5, § 296-24-71505, filed 5/9/73 and Order 73-4, § 296-24-71505, filed 5/7/73.]