Design and Development of an Improved Protective Mask for Welders

Authors: Ross Anthony M. Odvina, Leinard Jay E. Ramirez, and Gerry M. Castillo

Abstract: The study was primarily conducted to design and improve the existing protective mask used by welders in the welding shop through the application of ergonomics using 5th and 95th percentile and anthropometry. It also aimed to determine the attributes of the existing protective masks, identify the problems or discomforts that were experienced by the welders, ergonomic activities that will correct the problem, determine the cost that will be used to develop and improve the existing mask and compare the anthropometric dimensions of the existing protective mask with the proposed protective mask designs to show the deficiency of the existing design. The study had required data such as the attributes of the existing protective mask, the problems and discomforts experienced, and the anthropometric dimensions of the welders. It was conducted in the form of survey questionnaire and interview from welding shops of selected areas in Cavite, while the dimensions of the protective mask were obtained through measuring the length, width, depth, and weight of the mask. The results of the study showed that the problems and discomforts experienced by the welders were inhaling fumes, eye irritation, and having a hard time seeing the front view. A prototype protective mask was developed considering relevant facial and head anthropometry gathered from the welders. The proposed protective mask used automatic darkening lens, adjustable headgear, polyamide plastic for the face cover, and respirator to filter the fumes caused by the welding process. The prototype was evaluated using five indicators (Functionality, Aesthetics, Durability, Safety, and Workability). Results showed that respondents were significantly satisfied with the prototype in all features evaluated. It was more expensive compared to the existing mask because of the materials used to develop and improved the protective mask. However, it has automatic lens and can be charge by solar power, light face cover, easy adjustable headgear, and respirator so that the user will not inhale any fumes cause by the welding process.

Keywords: Protective Mask, Welders, Design and Development