Determination of Important Parameters and Technical Characteristic for Welding Fumes Index Development by Using QFD Approach

Abstract

This paper discussed on the determination of important parameters and technical characteristic for the development of a welding fumes index by using Quality Function Deployment (QFD) approach. Welding fumes index is developed with the objective to enhance the welding workplace safety and health. Index simplifies complex health-hazard issues of welding fumes to be comprehended easily by the employees. Questionnaires on welder desire to know the various welding fumes health effects that exist in their workplace were distributed among welders of a selected automotive assembly lines in the state Pahang, Malaysia, during a pilot case study. Results of the questionnaires show that all the customer requirements (irritants effect, sensitizer effects, respiratory system effect, systemic toxin effect, reproductive toxins effect, carcinogen effect, mixture effect) were equally important to the welders. The relationship between the customer (welder) requirement and technical characteristic were established whereby important technical characteristics were shortlisted. Development of welding fumes index according to employees demand will increase the knowledge and awareness on occupational safety and health among employees. The paper provides the main idea on development of welding fumes index taking into consideration the needs of the customer i.e. welder.