Welding fumes pose serious health risks—not just to welders, but to everyone in the shop. This post walks you through the correct order of steps for reducing and controlling fume exposure, starting with engineering controls and ending with PPE as a last resort. You’ll learn how to effectively use substitution, isolation, and ventilation, as well as practical safe work practices that can dramatically reduce exposure. If your shop hasn’t taken a strategic approach to fume control, this article is an essential read.