Welders need a place to step out of fume, reset, and hydrate without carrying exposure into their break. Clean air break zones create a safe-haven that supports health, reduces cross-contamination, and helps with COSHH compliance. They do not need to be complicated, but they must be deliberate.

Choose the right location

Site the zone upwind of welding bays where possible, away from traffic routes and grinding. Use physical separation: a closed room is ideal; if not, use floor-to-ceiling curtains or panels to limit air mixing. Keep doors closed and fit automatic closers. If you can, maintain slight positive pressure in the room so fume stays out when the door opens.

Control the air

Provide clean air changes through air filtration rather than relying on general ventilation. Use air scrubbers or office-grade purifiers with high-efficiency filters; for fine and carcinogenic particulates, H13/H14 HEPA is typically appropriate. Position the unit to pull air across the room, not straight onto people. As a practical example, a quiet office air purifier such as a MAXVAC Medi unit can stabilise air quality in rest areas without disrupting conversations.

Manage entry, clothing, and housekeeping

• Fit a simple tack mat or grille at the entrance to capture debris on boots.
• Provide coat hooks and covered bins; discourage storing PPE in the break zone.
• Use vacuum cleaning only. Avoid sweeping or compressed air to prevent re-suspending fume residues.
• Wipe tables and touchpoints daily with a damp method. Schedule a weekly deep clean with an industrial vacuum fitted with high-efficiency filtration.

Monitor and prove it works

Use a basic particulate monitor to check background PM2.5/PM1 levels before first use, then during busy periods. Record results with date, time, and activities nearby. If readings climb, check door discipline, filter loading, and whether nearby processes have changed. Keep a simple log to support COSHH records.

Practical takeaways

• Locate the break zone upwind and physically separated.
• Use high-efficiency air filtration (preferably H13/H14 for fine fume).
• Keep it positive: close doors and consider slight positive pressure.
• Housekeep by vacuuming only; no sweeping or compressed air.
• Verify with a particulate monitor and keep a short log.

When clean air spaces are treated as part of the welding process, they stay clean. A modest setup, disciplined housekeeping, and simple monitoring are enough to protect breaks and support compliance.