Abstract

A few years ago the IRSST, at the request of the Association sectorielle paritaire, Fabrication d'équipement de transport et de machines (Joint Sectoral Association, Transportation and Machine Fabrication Sector), studied the effectiveness of welding-fume capture nozzles found on some welding guns. The Association recently asked the Institute to evaluate new welding guns.

Problems related to worker discomfort and welding joint quality were identified during initial discussions with welders. Following up on these observations, this project will evaluate the ergonomics of the welding guns, including the effect of the capture nozzles on muscular exertion of the upper limbs and on discomfort, and the quality of the weld they produce. If warranted, recommendations concerning improvements to the welding guns will be formulated.