Reduction of nanoparticle exposure to welding aerosols by modification of the ventilation system in a workplace

First the nanometer particle size distributions were measured in booths with two kinds of ventilation patterns in an occupational environment with welding operations underway. It appeared that the concentration of particles in the vicinity of the welder's face decreased with the modified ventilation system (with ventilation ducts located below the weld bench). The particles were also collected and analyzed to determine their morphology and composition.