Hitsaajan työolosuhteiden parantaminen: Loppuraportti. TSR-hanke 114388

As a result of the HITOP project, fresh research data have been obtained on theconditions of the welding and on the performance of the welding protection, as well ason the development needs. The main research topic was the MIG welding. In particular, the effects of magnetic fields were studied. Additionally, welding noise and air quality were studied. Electromagnetic exposure during welding is less than during the initial peak.According to the recommendations in ICNIRP 2010, the recommended value of 100 % was exceeded only during the initial peak. ICNIRP 2010 recommendation corresponds to the employee exposure limit in Finland. Electromagnetic fields during welding exceeded the 100% exposure value in about 25% of the measured situations. The amount of the welder's exposure depends on the welder's way of welding. A qualitatively good welding result also means less exposure to magnetic fields. Further, based on the results obtained, two film materials were found which have the potential to protect against electromagnetic radiation and which could be used in personal protection solutions. Regarding to the welding noise, the project resulted in recommendations and methods for selecting welding protectors, as well as ways to bring welding noise to the welder in a controlled manner, so that information included in the welding noise remains. Personalised earplugs were found to be a good option for protection against welding, machinery and tool noise. In the case of breathing air, the working condition of the welders is fine when they use the Powered air-purifying respirator (PAPR). However, PAPR must be used in accordance with the instructions and may not, for example, be removed too soon after the end of the welding work. On the other hand, the situation of workers near the welders is worse with regard to the air quality, and their situation should be improved by all available means. The project was sponsored by the Finnish Work Environment Fund (Työsuojelurahasto), VTT Ltd, Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, Kemppi Oy, Meyer Turku Oy, Oticon Oy, Leijona Group Oy and ATEX Ammattiasut Oy. The project was lasted from 1 January 2015 to 15 November 2016. The project reasearch part was carried out by VTT and the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health. The first results of the project were presented in 2016 and the final report will be public in 2017.