Arbetsmiljöutredning med Åtgärdsförslag för Svetsare vid Svetsning i Koppar : ABB Transformers Plåtverkstad

This thesis has been carried out at ABB Power Transformers in Ludvika at the plate shop, where large transformer boxes are welded together. The topic of the thesis was formulated together with our supervisor at the company, to assess air quality and work environment at the spot welding of copper. Copper exposure was suspected to be high, and an evaluation of air quality was needed. No previous exposure measurements when welding in copper have been made in the plate shop. The purpose of this study was to evaluate and come up with three proposals for actions to create a better working environment for spot welding as well as to limit exposure to welding fumes generated during welding of copper. An exposure measurement of air pollutants during welding of copper was done to evaluate copper exposure compared to threshold limit values of substances in welding fume. Exposure measurements were made with personal monitors. In addition, measurement with stationary equipment and measurement with directreading instruments. The use of protective equipment and ventilation were studied. In connection with measurements interviews were made. The results of exposure measurements showed that the occupational exposure limit value for copper was exceeded considerably during the spot welding with the MIG welding process. The threshold limit value of copper is 0,2 mg/m3 and the highest value measured was 1,05 mg/m3, measured outside the welding shield. Based on observations on the use of personal protective equipment it has been noted that protective equipment is available but not used to desired extent. Three control actions are proposed; (1) routines to change the respiratory protective equipment filter regularly, (2) start using local exhaust integrated in the welding gun to a greater extent and (3) improve the ventilation in the plate shop by installing displacement ventilation. The calculated costs for two of the actions, action (1) and (2), fulfill the company's payoff principle of 3 years. The thesis will contribute to making all employees in the plate shop aware of the risks that the work involves exposure to welding fumes. But even that they think of their own and others' safety and health in their daily work and adopt measures that effectively reduce exposure to welding fumes. To invest in a good working environment involves costs, such as protective and risk education. However, this should not be viewed as a cost but rather that it is an investment in the long run, that improve employee health and performance at work. In conclusion: To invest in a good physical and psychosocial work environment is an investment to get an efficient and profitable business!