All forms of the welding processes generate visible smoke that contains harmful metal fume and gases. Metal particles in welding fumes are less than a micrometer in diameter and easy to inhale and be absorbed into the body.

Thermal cutting is related to welding as it involves the melting of metal and the generation of airborne metal fume.

Without a comprehensive weld fume extraction and removal system in place, these toxic substances can cause serious health problems for allemployees in their field of work. Prolonged exposure to welding fumes can lead to cancer, as well as nervous system and kidney damage. If ventilation is inadequate, certain gases can pose suffocation risks.