BS 

EN ISO 21904‑1:2020

BSI Standards Publication

Health and safety in welding and allied

processes – Equipment for capture
and separation of welding fume

Part 1: General requirements

BS EN ISO 21904‑1:2020 BRITISH STANDARD

National foreword
This British Standard is the UK implementation of
EN ISO 21904‑1:2020. It is identical to ISO 21904‑1:2020. It supersedes
BS EN ISO 15012‑4:2016, which is withdrawn.
The UK participation in its preparation was entrusted to Technical
Committee WEE/40, Health and safety in welding.
A list of organizations represented on this committee can be obtained on
request to its secretary.
This publication does not purport to include all the necessary provisions
of a contract. Users are responsible for its correct application.
© The British Standards Institution 2020
Published by BSI Standards Limited 2020
ISBN 978 0 580 99524 8
ICS 13.100; 13.040.40; 25.160.30; 25.160.01
Compliance with a British Standard cannot confer immunity from
legal obligations.
This British Standard was published under the authority of the
Standards Policy and Strategy Committee on 31 March 2020.

Amendments/corrigenda issued since publication

Date Text affected
EUROPEAN STANDARD EN ISO 21904‑1
NORME EUROPÉENNE
EUROPÄISCHE NORM March 2020

ICS 25.160.01; 13.100 Supersedes EN ISO 15012‑4:2016

English Version

Health and safety in welding and allied processes -

Equipment for capture and separation of welding fume -
Part 1: General requirements (ISO 21904-1:2020)
Hygiène et sécurité en soudage et techniques
connexes - Equipements de captage et de
filtration des fumées - Partie 1: Exigences
générales (ISO 21904-1:2020)
Arbeits- und Gesundheitsschutz beim Schweißen
und bei verwandten Verfahren - Einrichtungen zum
Erfassen und Abscheiden von Schweißrauch - Teil
1: Allgemeine Anforderungen (ISO 21904-1:2020)

This European Standard was approved by CEN on 31 January 2020.

CEN members are bound to comply with the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations which stipulate the conditions for giving
this European Standard the status of a national standard without any alteration. Up-to-date lists and bibliographical
references concerning such national standards may be obtained on application to the CEN-CENELEC Management Centre
or to any CEN member.

This European Standard exists in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other language
made by translation under the responsibility of a CEN member into its own language and notified to the CEN-CENELEC
Management Centre has the same status as the official versions.

CEN members are the national standards bodies of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark,
Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta,
Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Republic of North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden,
Switzerland, Turkey and United Kingdom.

EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION

COMITÉ EUROPÉEN DE NORMALISATION
EUROPÄISCHES KOMITEE FÜR NORMUNG

CEN-CENELEC Management Centre: Rue de la Science 23, B-1040 Brussels

© 2020 CEN All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved Ref. No. EN ISO 21904‑1:2020: E
worldwide for CEN national Members
BS EN ISO 21904‑1:2020
EN ISO 21904‑1:2020 (E)

European foreword
This document (EN ISO 21904‑1:2020) has been prepared by Technical Committee ISO/TC 44 "Welding
and allied processes" in collaboration with Technical Committee CEN/TC 121 “Welding and allied
processes” the secretariat of which is held by DIN.
This European Standard shall be given the status of a national standard, either by publication of an
identical text or by endorsement, at the latest by September 2020, and conflicting national standards
shall be withdrawn at the latest by September 2020.
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of
patent rights. CEN shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
This document supersedes EN ISO 15012‑4:2016.
This document has been prepared under a mandate given to CEN by the European Commission and the
European Free Trade Association, and supports essential requirements of EU Directive(s).
For the relationship with EU Directive(s) see informative Annex ZA, which is an integral part of
this document.
According to the CEN-CENELEC Internal Regulations, the national standards organizations of the
following countries are bound to implement this European Standard: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria,
Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland,
Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Republic
of North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and the
United Kingdom.

Endorsement notice
The text of ISO 21904‑1:2020 has been approved by CEN as EN ISO 21904‑1:2020 without any
modification.

ii
 BS EN ISO 21904‑1:2020
ISO 21904‑1:2020


Contents Page

Foreword......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... iv
Introduction...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................v
1 Scope.................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 1
2 Normative references....................................................................................................................................................................................... 1
3 Terms and definitions...................................................................................................................................................................................... 2
4 Significant hazards.............................................................................................................................................................................................. 4
5 Requirements and verifications............................................................................................................................................................ 4
5.1 General............................................................................................................................................................................................................ 4
5.2 Extraction devices................................................................................................................................................................................. 8
5.3 Ducting properties............................................................................................................................................................................. 14
5.4 Filters, related components and handling..................................................................................................................... 16
6 Instructions for use.........................................................................................................................................................................................20
6.1 General......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 20
6.2 Extraction devices.............................................................................................................................................................................. 21
6.2.1 Captor hoods and nozzles...................................................................................................................................... 21
6.2.2 On-torch extraction systems................................................................................................................................ 21
7 Marking........................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 22
7.1 General marking.................................................................................................................................................................................. 22
7.2 Marking of separation efficiency........................................................................................................................................... 22
7.3 Marking of captor hoods and nozzles............................................................................................................................... 22
7.4 Marking of on-torch extraction systems......................................................................................................................... 23
Annex A (informative) Malfunctions and determination of minimum airflow......................................................24
Annex B (normative) Label for welding fume separation equipment.............................................................................25
Bibliography.............................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 26

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BS EN ISO 21904‑1:2020
ISO 21904‑1:2020


Foreword
ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) is a worldwide federation of national standards
bodies (ISO member bodies). The work of preparing International Standards is normally carried out
through ISO technical committees. Each member body interested in a subject for which a technical
committee has been established has the right to be represented on that committee. International
organizations, governmental and non-governmental, in liaison with ISO, also take part in the work.
ISO collaborates closely with the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) on all matters of
electrotechnical standardization.
The procedures used to develop this document and those intended for its further maintenance are
described in the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 1. In particular, the different approval criteria needed for the
different types of ISO documents should be noted. This document was drafted in accordance with the
editorial rules of the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2 (see www.iso.org/directives).
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of
patent rights. ISO shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights. Details of
any patent rights identified during the development of the document will be in the Introduction and/or
on the ISO list of patent declarations received (see www.iso.org/patents).
Any trade name used in this document is information given for the convenience of users and does not
constitute an endorsement.
For an explanation of the voluntary nature of standards, the meaning of ISO specific terms and
expressions related to conformity assessment, as well as information about ISO's adherence to the
World Trade Organization (WTO) principles in the Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) see www.iso.
org/iso/foreword.html.
This document was prepared by Technical Committee ISO/TC 44, Welding and allied processes,
Subcommittee SC 9, Health and safety.
Any feedback or questions on this document should be directed to the user’s national standards body. A
complete listing of these bodies can be found at www.iso.org/members.html.
Official interpretations of ISO/TC 44 documents, where they exist, are available from this page: https://
committee.iso.org/sites/tc44/home/interpretation.html.
A list of all parts in the ISO 21904 series can be found on the ISO website.
This first edition cancels and replaces ISO 15012‑4.

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 BS EN ISO 21904‑1:2020
ISO 21904‑1:2020


Introduction
Welding and allied processes generate fumes and gases which, if inhaled, can be harmful to
human health. Therefore, control of the fumes and gases generated is to be exercised to minimize
worker exposure.
The most effective method of control is to capture the fumes and gases close to their source before they
enter a worker’s breathing zone or the general workplace environment.
Ventilation equipment used to capture the fumes and gases is to be fit for purpose because inefficient
capture can result in high exposure and can be detrimental to workers’ health. Therefore, it is important
that it adheres to defined manufacturing, materials and design requirements and gives warning of
malfunction.
This document is a type-C standard as stated in ISO 12100.
This document is of relevance, in particular, for the following stakeholder groups representing the
market players with regard to machinery safety:
— machine manufacturers (small, medium and large enterprises);
— health and safety bodies (regulators, accident prevention organisations, market surveillance etc.);
Others can be affected by the level of machinery safety achieved with the means of the document by the
above-mentioned stakeholder groups:
— machine users/employers (small, medium and large enterprises);
— machine users/employees (e.g. trade unions, organizations for people with special needs);
— service providers, e. g. for maintenance (small, medium and large enterprises);
— consumers (in case of machinery intended for use by consumers).
The above-mentioned stakeholder groups have been given the possibility to participate at the drafting
process of this document.
In addition, this document is intended for standardization bodies elaborating type-C standards.
The requirements of this document can be supplemented or modified by a type-C standard.
For machines which are covered by the scope of a type-C standard and which have been designed
and built according to the requirements of that standard, the requirements of that type-C standard
take precedence.

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 BS EN ISO 21904‑1:2020
INTERNATIONAL STANDARD ISO 21904‑1:2020

Health and safety in welding and allied processes –

Equipment for capture and separation of welding fume —
Part 1:
General requirements

1 Scope
This document defines the general requirements for ventilation equipment used to capture and
separate fumes generated by welding and allied processes, e.g. arc welding and thermal cutting.
This document also specifies the test data to be marked on the capture devices.
It applies to the design and manufacture of parts of the equipment including hoods for welding, ducting,
filter units, air movers, systems that inform of unsafe operation and workplace practices to ensure safe
working with regard to exposure.
Significant hazards are listed in Clause 4. It does not cover electrical, mechanical and pneumatic hazards.
This document is applicable to:
— local exhaust ventilation systems (LEV) excluding draught tables;
— mobile and stationary equipment;
— separation equipment used for welding and allied processes;
This document is not applicable to:
— general ventilation, air make up or air movement systems;
— air conditioning systems;
— grinding dust.
This document applies to systems designed and manufactured after its publication.
NOTE Specific safety requirements for thermal cutting machines are defined in ISO 17916.

2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content
constitutes requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For
undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
ISO 12100:2010, Safety of machinery — General principles for design — Risk assessment and risk reduction
ISO 13849‑1:2015, Safety of machinery — Safety-related parts of control systems — Part 1: General
principles for design
ISO 21904‑2:2020, Health and safety in welding and allied processes — Equipment for capture and
separation of welding fume — Part 2: Requirements for testing and marking of separation efficiency
ISO 21904‑4:2020, Health and safety in welding and allied processes — Requirements, testing and marking
of equipment for air filtration  — Part  4: Determination of the minimum air volume flow rate of captor
hoods and nozzles

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BS EN ISO 21904‑1:2020
ISO 21904‑1:2020


IEC 60204‑1:2005, Safety of machinery — Electrical equipment of machines — Part 1: General requirements

IEC 60335‑2‑69:2012, Household and similar electrical appliances — Safety — Part 2-69: Particular
requirements for wet and dry vacuum cleaners, including power brush, for commercial use
IEC 60695‑2‑12:2010+A1:2014, Fire hazard testing — Part 2-12: Glowing/hot-wire based test methods —
Glow-wire flammability index (GWFI) test method for materials

3 Terms and definitions

For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions given in ISO 12100:2010 and the
following apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminological databases for use in standardization at the following addresses:
— ISO Online browsing platform: available at https://www.iso.org/obp
— IEC Electropedia: available at http://www.electropedia.org/
3.1
welding fume separation equipment
air filtration equipment, the purpose of which is to separate particles generated by welding and allied
processes from workplace atmosphere
Note 1 to entry: Some separation equipment is designed to also remove gases generated by welding, but the
ISO 21904 series does not address the efficiency of gas separation.

3.2
filter cleaning system
system designed to clean the filter of welding fume separation equipment (3.1) in order to restore the air
flow rate through the filter when it is reduced by an accumulation of welding fume (3.13) particles
3.3
on-line filter cleaning system
filter cleaning system, either automatically or manually initiated, operating while welding fume
separation equipment (3.1) is running
3.4
off-line filter cleaning system
filter cleaning system, either automatically or manually initiated, operating after the air mover of the
filtration equipment is switched off
3.5
separation efficiency by mass
ratio of the mass of particles retained by welding fume separation equipment (3.1) to the mass of particles
entering the equipment during a given period
Note 1 to entry: General information on test methods for determination of separation efficiency is described in
EN 1093‑6 and EN 1093‑7.

3.6
local exhaust ventilation
LEV
use of extraction to remove contaminated air at or near to its source

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 BS EN ISO 21904‑1:2020
ISO 21904‑1:2020


3.7
filter protector
device normally positioned at the intake of the welding fume separation equipment (3.1), used to
minimize the possibility of damaging impacts of sparks or large particles on filter media
Note 1 to entry: Filter media can also be protected against sparks and large particles by the internal design of the
welding fume separation equipment.

Note 2 to entry: Examples of filter protectors are cyclones, spin separators, baffles or sieves. A filter protector
may be designed to also protect against flame damage.

3.8
on-torch extraction device
on-gun extraction device
equipment, integrated or attached, on torch used for capturing welding fume (3.13), when connected to
an extraction source
Note 1 to entry: Due to the state of the art, on-torch extraction devices for TIG welding are not covered by
this definition.

Note 2 to entry: For an overview of the different extraction devices, see Figure 1.

Dimensions in metres

Key
1 on-torch extraction (3.8), 50 m3/h to 100 m3/h, 5 kPa to 18 kPa
2 high vacuum extraction (3.9), 100 m3/h to 150 m3/h, 5 kPa to 10 kPa
3 low vacuum extraction (3.9), 700 m3/h to 1500 m3/h, 800 Pa to 2 000 Pa

Figure 1 — Overview of extraction devices and common air volume flow rates and pressure

3.9
captor hood
captor nozzle
equipment, movable or static, used for capturing welding fume (3.13), when connected to an
extraction source
Note 1 to entry: For an overview of the different extraction devices, see Figure 1.

3.10
receiving hood
canopy
equipment, movable or static, normally positioned above a hot process, where the contaminated air is
propelled into it by process-induced air movement

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BS EN ISO 21904‑1:2020
ISO 21904‑1:2020


3.11
enclosure
chamber
fully or partially enclosed space where the process takes place, designed to contain and prevent the
escape of hazardous substances into the workshop air
3.12
suction equipment
unit with air mover and with or without a filter
3.13
welding fume
airborne particles typically with diameter smaller than 1 µm generated by welding and allied processes
3.14
minimum air volume flow rate
air volume flow rate required for acceptable capture of welding fume (3.13)
Note 1 to entry: The minimum air volume flow rate depends on the type and the geometric dimensions of the
capture device and the test positions selected to demonstrate the extent of the capture zone (see 7.3).

3.15
suction field
volume around a capture device, in which the air velocity required to capture welding fume
(3.13) is exceeded

4 Significant hazards
Exposure to welding fumes and gases generated by welding and allied processes can be detrimental to
health. Control of exposure can usually be achieved using ventilation equipment but any failure of this
equipment, such as poor design and the use of parts made of unsuitable materials, can result in reduced
extraction efficiency and hence over exposure and ill health.
Common health effects include respiratory disease, but exposure to carcinogenic substances during the
welding can occur and shall be considered.
The requirements of the ventilation equipment are dependent on the level of control necessary.

5 Requirements and verifications

5.1 General
The general requirements and corresponding verifications are given in Table 1.

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 Table 1 — General requirements and verifications
  Requirement Verification
 
1.1   Requirements for all Machinery shall comply with the safety requirements and/or protective/
equipment risk reduction measures in Clause 5. In addition, the machine shall be
designed according to the principles of ISO 12100:2010 for relevant but not
significant hazards which are not dealt with by this document.

© ISO 2020 – All rights reserved

All parts and materials used in the manufacture of welding fume ventila‑ Verification shall be performed by examining the
tion equipment shall withstand the conditions (thermal, mechanical, UV ra‑ manufacturer’s datasheets, the instruction manual,
diation) present in the environment in which they are intended to be used. and by referring to the manufacturer's long-term
experience with respective devices.
Equipment used for capturing of welding fume shall be fitted with indi‑ Conformity shall be checked by visual and/or audible
cators and control units showing correct operation or malfunction of the inspection.
device, as malfunctions can cause hazardous operation conditions for the
user. Malfunction of equipment shall be indicated by a clear visual or acous‑
tic warning signal. Two types of malfunctions are possible and are shown in
Annex A together with their most common causes.


Visual warning signals shall work with a pulse frequency between 2 Hz and
0,2 Hz, emitting yellow or yellow-orange light. Visible warning signals shall
be installed inside or nearby the working area of welders in order to be
recognized when the light is on.
NOTE   EN 842 provides additional guidance for visual danger signals. This
document can also be part of national legislation.
If an acoustic warning device is installed, it shall work within an audio-fre‑
quency between 500 Hz and 3 000 Hz and have a pulse time between 0,5 s
and 5 s. The A-weighted sound pressure level shall be between 8 dB and
20 dB higher than the 1 m-surface sound pressure level of the welding fume
separation equipment.
Signals/indicators for normal operation
— For LEV: Proper operation of a LEV shall be indicated by a control
lamp emitting green light.
ISO 21904‑1:2020

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6
Table 1 (continued)
  Requirement Verification
— For dampers on devices for capturing: Capture equipment fitted
with a manual shut off damper, the handle shall be aligned with
the damper position. For automatic dampers, the position shall be
ISO 21904‑1:2020

indicated clearly visible to the user as open or closed.

BS EN ISO 21904‑1:2020

Warning signals for malfunction Conformity shall be checked by simulating a malfunc‑

tion in order to test the function of the warning signal.
— Separation equipment shall be fitted with a device that indicates
that the filter needs service (either cleaning or replacement).
When any malfunction exists, the control lamp shall not emit
green light and the warning signals shall be active.

NOTE   There is currently no reliable system for monitoring the filter efficiency.

It is therefore excluded.


1.2   Additional require‑ Carcinogenic substances require checking of airflow rate in the extraction Conformity shall be checked by simulating a malfunc‑
ments for equipment used duct at each individual work place. tion in order to test the function of the warning signal.
for separation of carcino‑
NOTE   The airflow rate is measured indirectly, usually by measuring the
genic substances
duct pressure except for on-torch extraction devices where a direct meas‑
urement of airflow at the nozzle is required.
The required Performance Level, PLr, according to ISO 13849‑1:2015 is level
a.
Warning signal for malfunction: if the airflow rate in the extraction duct
is insufficient, it shall be indicated by a clear visual or acoustic warning
signal.

© ISO 2020 – All rights reserved

 Table 1 (continued)
  Requirement Verification
1.3   Flammability Non-metallic parts (especially hoods, hoses and ducting properties) shall be Ve r i f i c a t i o n s h a l l b e p e r f o r m e d b y e x‑
made of materials of low flammability. amining compliance w it h t he follow ing:

a) For hoods and hoses: GWIT: 550 according

to IEC 60695‑2‑12:2010+A1:2014 (glow-wire

© ISO 2020 – All rights reserved

test temperature of 550 °C)
b) For ducting properties: GWIT: 960 according
to IEC 60695‑2‑12:2010+A1:2014 (glow-wire
test temperature of 960 °C)

NOTE   The use of materials of higher flammability can

result in damage to the hose leading to reduced airflow at
the extraction point and hence poor extraction efficiency.


ISO 21904‑1:2020

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5.2 Extraction devices

The requirements and corresponding verifications for extraction devices are given in Table 2.

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 Table 2 — Requirements and verifications for extraction devices
Requirement Verification
1   Extraction devices to be used close to the welding fume source (distance up to 0,4 m)
 

1.1   On-torch extraction — The extraction device integrated to the torch shall be able to induce a Verification shall be performed by measuring
devices sufficient velocity, see Table below. These induced velocities shall be obtained the air flow rate and depression according to
with a limited depression at the connector. ISO 21904‑4:2020.

© ISO 2020 – All rights reserved

Needed depression at connector,
Designed current Induced velocity, vi
∆pc
A m/s
kPa
≤200 ≥0,25
≤18
>200 ≥0,35
NOTE 1   Torch designed for maximum operating current (60 % duty cycle for air-
cooled torches and 100 % for liquid-cooled torches with shielding gas Ar-CO2).


— The manufacturer of the torch shall use the results of the test according
to ISO 21904‑4:2020 to specify the air flow rate and the depression at the
connector to achieve the required induced velocity.
— In order to guarantee the efficiency on field, the design of the torch should
not allow operation if parts ensuring the capture are not assembled, e.g. the
nozzle (this provision means to prevent the dismantling of parts which the
welder does not deem necessary).

NOTE 2   Reaching 100 % efficiency is not possible because that would extract the
shielding gas and each single spark spattering away, has its own wisp of smoke. It can be
necessary to use additional equipment like ventilation or personal protection to reduce
the hazardous substances.
1.2   Captor hoods and The extension of the suction field shall be determined in a measurement plane accord‑ Verification shall be performed by measuring
nozzles extraction ing ISO 21904‑4:2020. the suction field according to ISO 21904‑4:2020.
devices
The suction field shall have an extension of at least 1,5 times the diameter of the at‑ Insufficient performance of the hood can be
tached duct in one direction and at least one duct diameter in the orthogonal direction. compensated by increasing the volume flow
rate. The size of the suction field shall be ver‑
ified by performing a new measurement with
the new flow rate.
ISO 21904‑1:2020

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Table 2 (continued)

10
  Requirement Verification
The necessary flow rate shall be assured by the manufacturer.
The manufacturer of a hood or nozzle shall use the results of the tests according to
ISO 21904‑4:2020 to specify and mark the device with the minimum air volume flow
ISO 21904‑1:2020

rate required to achieve an air velocity of 0,3 m/s in the measurement plane, the dis‑
tance of the measurement plane from the entry plane and the position of the measure‑
BS EN ISO 21904‑1:2020

ment points selected to demonstrate the extent of the capture zone of the device. The
measurement points shall be identified by their (x, y)-co-ordinates projected from the
entry plane.
NOTE   A hood or nozzle is expected to achieve effective capture of welding fume if it
is operated with an air volume flow rate greater than or equal to the determined min‑
imum air volume flow rate, and if it is positioned at a distance less than or equal to the
distance between the measurement plane and the entry plane of the device.
1.2.1   Extraction It sha l l be possible (see Fig ure  2) to move a f lex ible a r m in a ny di‑ Verification that the arm is easily movable shall
devices with flexible rec t ion using a force not exceeding 60 N at t he handhold of t he hood: be achieved by measurement of forces and that
arms it retains its position by visual inspection.


a) with the arm at 70 % of its maximum range;
b) at a point c, 1 300 mm ± 100 mm above ground level;
c) in the directions shown in Figure 2, over a range that is 10 % of the maximum
range. The movement in the Z-direction may follow an arc with radius, r.

NOTE 1   If flexible arms do not fulfil the requirements, the risk of incorrect use or non-
use increases because of ergonomic reasons.
NOTE 2   The handhold is the point on the hood intended to be touched for movement.
The arm shall retain their position over the entire operating range after the force has
been removed.
1.2.2   Extraction de‑ No specific requirements
vices with fixed arms

© ISO 2020 – All rights reserved

 Table 2 (continued)
  Requirement Verification

© ISO 2020 – All rights reserved


Key
a   70 % of the maximum range.
b   Starting point of movement.

Figure 2 — Example for a moving force test setup

c   Point of force measurement.
ISO 21904‑1:2020

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Table 2 (continued)

12
Requirement Verification
2   Extraction devices to be used in the vicinity of the welding fume source (distance up to 1,5 m)
 
ISO 21904‑1:2020
BS EN ISO 21904‑1:2020

Key


Figure 3 — Receiving hood with curtains
1   common airflow and pressure, 2 000 m3/h to 4 000 m3/h, 100 Pa to 500 Pa

2.1   Receiving hoods Figure 3 shows a receiving hood with curtains. An air volume flow rate sufficient to Verification that no welding fume escapes shall
remove all the welding fumes received shall be employed. be performed qualitatively by visual inspection
using a welding fume source (see also Annex A).
NOTE 1   The air volume flow rate required depends on the thermal flow generated by
the welding process, the vertical distance between welding fume source and hood, and NOTE 2   A possible method for visual inspec‑
the dimensions of the receiving hood. tion is using a dust lamp (Tyndall effect) under
worst-case welding conditions.
2.2   Enclosures (cham‑ During welding fume generation and for a pre-determined clearance period after‑ Verification that no welding fume escapes shall
bers) wards, there shall be an inflow of air through all openings sufficient to prevent any be performed qualitatively by visual inspec‑
escape of welding fumes to the external environment. For an example of an enclosure tion with the welding process operating. The
see Figure 4. required flow rate shall be recorded. See also
Annex A.
NOTE 1   The flow rate can be different for
different welding parameter/material combina‑
tions.
NOTE 2   A possible method for visual inspec‑
tion is using a dust lamp (Tyndall effect) under
worst-case welding conditions.

© ISO 2020 – All rights reserved

 Table 2 (continued)
  Requirement Verification

© ISO 2020 – All rights reserved

Key

Figure 4 — Enclosure
1   common airflow and pressure, 2 000 m3/h to 4 000 m3/h, 100 Pa to 500 Pa


ISO 21904‑1:2020

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5.3 Ducting properties

The requirements and corresponding verifications are given in Table 3.

14  © ISO 2020 – All rights reserved

 Table 3 — Requirements and verifications for ducting properties
Component Requirements Verification
Ducting The ducting shall Verification shall be performed by visual in‑
a) allow access for inspection and maintenance (e.g. hatches), spection and measurement of the air velocity,
e.g. by hot wire or Pitot static tube according to
b) be sized, by calculation, to achieve a sufficient air velocity to minimize ISO 3966.
sedimentation

© ISO 2020 – All rights reserved

NOTE 1   For welding and allied processes, an air velocity of at least 10 m/s in
the duct is considered to be sufficient. Higher air velocities will result in higher
power consumption. Proper aerodynamic design of ducting, junctions, bends,
joints, etc., helps to minimize sedimentation, pressure drop and noise. A round‑
ed, rather than right angled, cross-section is preferred.
NOTE 2   Modern central systems often have automatic dampers for each work‑
place and maybe a frequency converter for the filter system. Normally, such a
system is designed for a specific number of places to be used at the same time.


If that number of places is active, the air velocity is expected to reach the design
velocity. If fewer places are used, the air velocity will be lower. This is consid‑
ered to be acceptable because the settling speed of welding fume is very low and
so there is not too much sedimentation in the ducting system.
ISO 21904‑1:2020

15

BS EN ISO 21904‑1:2020
BS EN ISO 21904‑1:2020
ISO 21904‑1:2020


5.4 Filters, related components and handling

The requirements and corresponding verifications are given in Table 4.

16  © ISO 2020 – All rights reserved

 Table 4 — Requirements and verifications for welding fume separation equipment
1   Efficiency of welding fume separation equipment
Component Requirements Verification
1.1   General The separation efficiency required is determined by the intended use of the Verification according to ISO 21904‑2:2020.
unit. Possible modes of operation are: exhaust air (1.2), recirculated air (1.3)
and a combination of recirculated and exhaust air.
NOTE   In some countries, regulations define the quality requirements for ex‑

© ISO 2020 – All rights reserved

haust air and recirculated air. In some countries, recirculation of air is prohibit‑
ed.
1.2   Exhaust air (airflow Separation equipment that is used exclusively for exhaust air shall have filters
discharged to the outdoor that comply at least to dust class L as given in IEC 60335‑2‑69:2012 or compara‑
environment) ble quality.
1.3   Recirculated air (extract The separation efficiency of the welding fume separation equipment shall be
air that is returned to the tested according to ISO 21904‑2:2020 and shall be at least 99 %. In that case, it

2   Filter related components

workplace atmosphere) may be marked W3.


2.1   Air mover Air movers shall be attached in a way that minimizes the risk of welding fume Conformity shall be checked by visual inspection.
emissions. If an air mover is installed in front of the filter, it should be ensured
that no leaks in the duct between the air mover and filter exist by which weld‑
ing fume can be emitted.
NOTE   For LEV, it is state-of-the-art to install the air mover behind (regarding
the direction of flow) the filter.
For air movers powered by three-phase electric motors, it shall be possible
to determine and adjust, if necessary, correct direction of rotation in order to
reach a sufficient air flow.
The equipment shall be designed in a way that an unintentional reversal of air Conformity shall be checked by reversing the
flow is prevented. motor rotation, a reverse of air flow shall not
occur.
ISO 21904‑1:2020

17

BS EN ISO 21904‑1:2020
 
Table 4 (continued)

18
2.2   Filter protector If the separation efficiency can be compromised by sparks or large, hot or If a filter protector shall be fitted, establish that
abrasive particles damaging the filter media, the filter media shall be protected the filter protector is present by visual inspec‑
either by a filter protector or by the welding fume separation equipment design. tion.
NOTE   The hazard of damaging the filter by sparks depends on a large number  
ISO 21904‑1:2020

of parameters. These need to be considered to determine the need for spark

NOTE   Currently, there is no test method availa‑
arrestors. Listed below are some of these parameters:
ble to measure the efficiency of filter protectors
BS EN ISO 21904‑1:2020

— The welding process: MIG/MAG welding generates sparks. Their against sparks.
number is increasing with the welding amperage. Other processes
like cutting or grinding also generate sparks. The amount depends on
the thickness of the cut material or the amount of stripped material.
— The material: Coatings on the basic material increase the generation
of sparks.
— The ducting: The longer the ducting and the more turns are installed,
the lower the risk of living sparks at the filter will be.


2.3   Filter cleaning system Filter cleaning systems shall restore the air volume flow rate greater than the Conformity shall be checked by visual inspection
minimum air volume flow rate for efficient capture. During cleaning, the emis‑
sion of airborne particles into the workplace shall be minimized. Filter cleaning
shall not create a reverse flow that causes the emission of particles from the
extraction entry point or from the body of the welding fume separation equip‑
ment. In case of off-line filter cleaning systems, a damper can be necessary to
prevent a return of airflow.
NOTE   Off-line filter cleaning systems are operating after the air mover of the
filtration equipment is switched off. On-line filter cleaning systems are operat‑

3   Airflow and exhaust air

ing while welding fume separation equipment is running.

3.1   Airflow capacity for Built for the intended airflow

intended use
For stand-alone units with combined extraction device the airflow measured
during the test according to ISO 21904‑2:2020 shall not go under the minimum
air volume flow rate determined according to ISO 21904‑4:2020.

© ISO 2020 – All rights reserved

 Table 4 (continued)
3.2   Exhaust air Welding fume separation equipment shall be designed and manufactured in a Conformity shall be checked by visual inspection
way that the exhaust and the cooling air of the motor can be directed away from and measuring the air velocity.
any persons working in the vicinity of the equipment.
Further exhaust and cooling air shall not disperse dust settled on the floor and/
or on walls. The velocities of the exhaust and of the cooling air shall not exceed
1 m/s at a distance of 1,5 m around the welding fume separator, between a
lower measurement plane at a height of 50 mm above the floor level and an

© ISO 2020 – All rights reserved

upper measurement plane at a height of 2 m above the floor level.
NOTE   In some countries, recirculation of air to the work place atmosphere is

4   Handling
discouraged or prohibited. Channelling of the exhaust air can be necessary.

4.1   Filter changing Welding fume separation equipment shall be designed so that filters can be Conformity shall be checked by visual inspection.
changed from the outside of the filter housing or from the clean air side.
NOTE   There is a high risk of exposure to suspended welding fume, if the equip‑
ment is not designed in that way.


4.2   Waste handling It shall be possible to replace any containers or bags while minimizing suspen‑ Conformity shall be checked by visual inspection.
sion of collected welding fume.
The containers or bags shall be able to withstand the stresses of transportation,
even when filled to their maximum capacity, and it shall be possible to seal them
tightly to eliminate the risk of suspension of collected welding fume.
Filter waste boxes or bags used for collection of particles shall not be reused.
Such boxes or bags shall be labelled for one-time use.
ISO 21904‑1:2020

19

BS EN ISO 21904‑1:2020
BS EN ISO 21904‑1:2020
ISO 21904‑1:2020


6 Instructions for use

6.1 General
The manufacturer shall provide information regarding the optimum use of extraction devices in an
instruction manual.
The manufacturer of a component such as the capture device or suction equipment shall give technical
data at the interface to connect components intended to be used. Technical data include, for example,
characteristic curves for flow rate and depression as well as dimensions.
The manufacturer shall state that any additional hoses or ducts can add pressure drop and shall be
considered by the installation designer or the user.
The manufacturer shall provide information regarding the inspection of hoses for damages affecting
the extraction efficiency.
The manufacturer shall inform the user if and how channelling of the exhaust air can be done.
NOTE 1 In some countries, recirculation of air to the work place atmosphere is discouraged or prohibited.
Channelling of the exhaust air can be necessary.

The instructions for use shall cover every life phase of the equipment (from assembling to placing out
of operation).
a) the instructions for use of welding fume separation equipment, which shall include the following
information:
1) the intended use of the equipment;
2) usability for welding fumes containing CMR (carcinogenic mutagenic reprotoxic) substances,
e.g. generated by welding high alloyed steels or welding consumables with more than
5 % (Cr, Ni);
3) usability only for welding fumes not containing CMR substances, e.g. TIG-welding of aluminium;
b) the meaning of indicators and warning signals;
c) the maintenance procedures, e.g. cleaning and changing of the filter, waste handling, changing of
expendable parts;
d) the temperature and atmosphere conditions for operation and storage.
In case of unavoidable residual risks, there shall be information in the manual with advice on how to
handle it, particularly regarding the handling of hazardous substances.
NOTE 2 There can be different requirements in national legislation for carcinogenic substances in the exhaust
air (e.g. in some countries, it is not allowed to bring back the cleaned air into the workshop, other countries allow
to bring back the cleaned air if the welding fume separation equipment is tested according to ISO 21904‑2:2020
and marked W3).

NOTE 3 Reaching 100  % efficiency is not possible because that would extract the shielding gas and each
single spark spattering away, has its own wisp of smoke. It may be necessary to use additional equipment like
ventilation or personal protection to reduce the hazardous substances.

Conformity shall be checked by visual inspection.

20  © ISO 2020 – All rights reserved

 BS EN ISO 21904‑1:2020
ISO 21904‑1:2020


6.2 Extraction devices

6.2.1 Captor hoods and nozzles

Effective operation of a captor hood depends primarily on its positioning towards the source/the
process where welding fume is emitted, and its capture zone depending on the air velocity and the
design of the capture device. In order to ensure adequate capture, the user needs information about
the use of the device and its optimal positioning, e.g. a captor hood, should be diametrically positioned
so that the welding fume is drawn away from the welders’ breathing zone. This shall be given by the
manufacturer in the instruction manual e.g. by a drawing like Figure 5. Requirements on the technical
performance of capturing devices are given in 5.1 and 5.2.
Conformity shall be checked by visual inspection.

Figure 5 — Plume and maximum height of the nozzle

6.2.2 On-torch extraction systems

In order to guarantee the efficiency on field, the manufacturer shall inform the user that all parts
ensuring the capture shall be assembled on correct position and in good condition e.g. the nozzle and
the hose (this provision wants to prevent the dismantling of parts which the welder does not deem
necessary). The bypass valve, if applicable, shall be normally closed and opened only temporarily.
The manufacturer shall give an instruction for checking the air flow rate at the nozzle.
In the user documentation, the manufacturer has to address information about risk of welding defect
due to excessive capture flow rate (ISO 21904‑4:2020, B.1 and B.2) and how to take into account the
geographical altitude during the adjustment of the depression (ISO 21904‑4:2020, B.3).
Conformity shall be checked by visual inspection.

© ISO 2020 – All rights reserved  21

BS EN ISO 21904‑1:2020
ISO 21904‑1:2020


7 Marking

7.1 General marking

Each machine shall be marked in a distinct and permanent manner in accordance to ISO 12100:2010,
6.4.4, and IEC 60204‑1:2005, 16.4.
If the requirements of this document are met, the manufacturer may label the equipment as being in
compliance with this document.

7.2 Marking of separation efficiency

If the requirement of 5.4 is met, the manufacturer may label the equipment W3 as shown in Annex B.

7.3 Marking of captor hoods and nozzles

The capture device shall be marked clearly visible and permanent with the following information:
a) the minimum air volume flow rate, Qmin;
b) the size of the suction field, Lx and Ly, at the minimum air volume flow rate;
c) the distance, d, from the entry plane of the capture device to the measurement plane;
d) optional: a reference to this document (i.e. ISO 21904‑1).

Key
Lx to be replaced by the value of the x-dimension of the suction field at Qmin in cm
Ly to be replaced by the value of the y-dimension of the suction field at Qmin in cm
d to be replaced by the value of the maximum operating distance in cm
q to be replaced by the value of the minimum air volume flow rate in m3/h

Figure 6 — Example of marking

22  © ISO 2020 – All rights reserved

 BS EN ISO 21904‑1:2020
ISO 21904‑1:2020


7.4 Marking of on-torch extraction systems

The welding torch shall be marked permanently and clearly visible at the connector with at least
the following:
a) the manufacturer's name (or trademark);
b) the model;
c) the actual air volume flow rate at the nozzle;
d) the actual air volume flow rate at the connection point of the hose;
e) the needed depression at the connection point of the hose;
f) a reference to this document (i.e. ISO 21904‑1).

© ISO 2020 – All rights reserved  23

BS EN ISO 21904‑1:2020
ISO 21904‑1:2020


Annex A
(informative)

Malfunctions and determination of minimum airflow

Tables A.1 and A.2 describe the most common malfunctions and the determination of the
minimum airflow.

Type of malfunction
Insufficient airflow, i.e. less than
the minimum airflow to capture
welding fume
Table A.1 — Malfunctions
Most common causes of malfunctions
Single place capturing system Central capturing system
— incorrect fan wiring Add it iona l t o t he ma l f u nc‑
tions of single systems:
— clogged filter or ducting
— damaged dampers
— damaged ducting
— too many dampers open
— damaged fan or controller

Insufficient filtration, i.e. evidence — damaged filter

of welding fume downstream of the
filter — filter bypassed

Table A.2 — Determination of minimum airflow

Types of capturing device Determination
Captor hoods In accordance with ISO 21904‑4:2020
Receiving hoods and enclosures Visually determined at commissioning stage
On-torch extraction systems In accordance with ISO 21904‑4:2020

24  © ISO 2020 – All rights reserved

 BS EN ISO 21904‑1:2020
ISO 21904‑1:2020


Annex B
(normative)

Label for welding fume separation equipment

See Figure B.1.

Key
1 RAL 5005 (blue)
2 RAL 9003 (white)
3 RAL 9004 (black)
a 50 mm or 100 mm
η separation efficiency by mass

NOTE Marking with W3 is optional.

Figure B.1 — Label for welding fume separation equipment

© ISO 2020 – All rights reserved  25

BS EN ISO 21904‑1:2020
ISO 21904‑1:2020


Bibliography

[1] ISO 3966, Measurement of fluid flow in closed conduits  — Velocity area method using Pitot
static tubes
[2] ISO 17916, Safety of thermal cutting machines

26  © ISO 2020 – All rights reserved

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