“Occupational Exposure to EMFs - paving the way for a future EU Initiative ” How to Work Safely with EMFs: The Welding Sector J Arwel Barrett HM Principal Specialist Inspector HSE Radiation Team Corporate Specialist Division Aula Nordica, Umeå University, 6-8 October 2009

welders RF Heater/sealers Part of the Electromagnetic Spectrum

Overview Welding processes Research Conclusions Future needs?

Manual metal arc welding (MMA) MIG Welding

HSE Research Report 338, 2005

Resistance (spot) welding

RF Welding

ILO Occupational Safety & Health Series 71. Detail of design for a sliding door to prevent stray EMFs

Conclusions  Arc welding – with a little care, the exposures of most welders will not be significant; …  Resistance welding – procedures where welders experience magnetophosphenes should be avoided; …  RF welding – modern enclosed systems appear to control exposures; older C-frame units have more problems assessing exposures and hence controlling duty cycle; …

Future needs  Arc welding – What effect will proposed ICNIRP changes mean for assessments? Information, instruction and training; …  Resistance welding – Where are higher fields – electrodes, or transformers? I, I & T; …  RF welding – Screening continuity; distance; duty cycle; measurement protocols for assessment models; I, I & T; …

Manual metal arc welding (MMA) MIG Welding

Any Questions?

J Arwel Barrett, TD HM Principal Specialist Inspector Tel: +44(0) Fax: +44(0) “I’m from the Government – I’m here to help you”