ISO 10882-1:2011 specifies a procedure for sampling airborne particles in the breathing zone of a person who performs welding and allied processes (the operator). It also provides details of relevant standards that specify required characteristics, performance requirements and test methods for workplace air measurement, and augments guidance provided in EN 689 on assessment strategy and measurement strategy. ISO 10882-1:2011 also specifies a procedure for making gravimetric measurements of personal exposure to airborne particles generated by welding and allied processes (welding fume) and other airborne particles generated by welding-related operations. Additionally, it provides references to suitable methods of chemical analysis, specified in other standards, to determine personal exposure to specific chemical agents present in welding fume and other airborne particles generated by welding-related operations.

The general background level of airborne particles in the workplace atmosphere influences personal exposure and therefore the role of fixed-point sampling is also considered.