Extension of the Advance REACH Tool (ART) to include Welding Fume Exposure

The Advanced REACH Tool (ART) is a mechanistic higher tier model to estimate inhalation exposure to chemicals using a Bayesian approach. Currently the ART model does not include exposure to welding fume with in its applicability domain; it has only been calibrated for vapours, mists, and dusts. To extend the scope to metal fume it is necessary to review the model structure to ensure that it is appropriate, and to calibrate the updated model using available welding fume exposure measurements. This paper provides a discussion of the key modifying factors that should be considered to extend the ART model to include welding fume exposure. Based on our literature review of the welding process type, input power level, shield gas, and welding consumables have important impact on fume formation rates. In addition, the convective dispersion of the fume away from the weld and the interaction of the welder with the fume plume should be incorporated into the ART model. Other aspects of the ART do not require modification. Proposals are made for extending the scope of the ART to include welding processes.