Welding Fume Extraction Audit

Inspection template for auditing welding fume local exhaust ventilation systems, including capture velocity, hood placement, airflow, and filter condition.

Inspection Details

• Inspection date and time recorded
• Inspection area or welding station identified
• Welding process and fume extraction system identified
• Inspector name and signature completed
• Last documented local exhaust ventilation test reviewed
  Record the date or reference of the most recent airflow or performance test, if available.

Hood Placement and Capture Zone

• Hood positioned close enough to the welding fume source
  Verify the hood is placed to capture fumes at or near the point of generation without obstructing the work.
• Hood opening unobstructed and oriented toward the plume
  Check that the hood face is not blocked by tools, fixtures, cables, or the workpiece and is aligned to intercept the rising fume plume.
• Flexible ducting and hood supports secure and undamaged
  Inspect for loose joints, crushed ducting, tears, missing clamps, or damaged support arms that could reduce capture efficiency.
• Extraction hood does not interfere with safe welding access
  Confirm the hood placement allows the welder to maintain safe posture, visibility, and access to the workpiece.

Airflow and Capture Performance

• Measured capture velocity meets site requirement
  Record the measured capture velocity at the hood face or specified test point and compare it to the site standard or manufacturer requirement.
• Airflow indicator or gauge shows normal operating range
  Verify the system airflow indicator, manometer, or gauge is within the normal operating range specified by the manufacturer or site procedure.
• Visible fume is effectively drawn into the hood during welding
  Observe active welding conditions to confirm the plume is being captured before it enters the welder's breathing zone.
• System noise, vibration, or pulsation indicates normal operation
  Check for abnormal fan noise, vibration, or airflow pulsation that may indicate blockage, imbalance, or mechanical failure.

Filter Condition and Maintenance

• Filter condition acceptable with no visible damage or saturation
  Inspect pre-filters and main filters for excessive loading, tears, bypass leakage, collapsed media, or other visible defects.
• Filter replacement or cleaning is up to date
  Confirm filters have been cleaned or replaced according to the maintenance schedule and manufacturer instructions.
• Differential pressure or clogging indicator within acceptable range
  Record the filter differential pressure or clogging indicator reading and compare it to the acceptable operating range.

Documentation and Corrective Actions

• Annual local exhaust ventilation testing documented
  Verify the system has documented annual testing or performance verification where required by site procedure or regulatory program.
• Deficiencies documented with corrective action assigned
  Record any non-conformance, responsible person, and due date for repair, adjustment, cleaning, or retesting.
• Area safe for continued welding operations
  Based on the inspection results, determine whether the extraction system is fit for continued use or requires immediate shutdown and repair.