Welding fumes should be properly vented to avoid health hazards. There are two main ways to vent welding fumes: local exhaust ventilation and general room ventilation.
Local exhaust ventilation is the most effective way to remove welding fumes at the source. This type of ventilation uses a fume extractor that is placed close to the welding arc. The extractor draws the fumes away from the welder’s breathing zone and into the filter where they are removed from the air.
General room ventilation is less effective than local exhaust ventilation, but it can still help reduce exposure to welding fumes. Room vents should be placed high up on walls or near ceilings so that they draw fresh air into the room and push contaminated air out.