RoboVent, a provider of clean air technologies for manufacturing based in Sterling Heights, Mich., has announced a new program to help industry leaders and plant managers understand and address air quality issues in manufacturing facilities.

The RoboVent Clean Air Initiative will include a suite of educational and training resources focused on air quality regulations, health and safety concerns, and remedy options. The initial focus will be on the automotive industry, with additional sectors rolling out later in 2016.

“The quality of air inside manufacturing facilities can have drastic effects on the health of employees,” said General Manager and Co-founder Jim Reid. “We want to help our industry partners fully understand how a healthy environment aids the employees and the company so they can make more educated decisions.”

Poor air quality is an ongoing challenge for manufacturers, says the company. Welding and other industrial processes create fumes and dusts that can have both acute and long-term health impacts for workers. Elements such as manganese, hexavalent chromium, and beryllium—all common byproducts of welding—are highly toxic and can lead to headaches, fatigue, and even neurological issues. Other processes may produce combustible dusts or oil mists that can damage workers’ lungs and create safety hazards. Poor air quality also is linked to lower productivity levels and is a significant factor in recruiting and retention for manufacturing facilities.

The initiative will include a variety of free and paid educational opportunities for the manufacturing industry:

Clean Air Academy – This two-day workshop is designed to give engineers, facility managers, and maintenance staff a solid foundation in the science of air quality management. The workshop includes how to recognize air-quality problems, evaluate remedy options, make informed equipment selections, and maintain a healthy work environment.Offered throughout 2016 at company headquarters, the workshop’s first session is March 1-2.Clean Air Webinar Series - Offered several times each year in collaboration with industry publishers and peers, this free educational webinar series introduces participants to the basics of industrial hygiene, air quality regulations, weld fume capture and ventilation options, and filtration. Recordings will be made available on the company’s website.

Clean Air White Paper Series - These educational pieces covering critical topics about indoor air quality will be offered free on the company’s website. Resources will be added throughout the year.

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