The European Federation for Welding, Joining and Cutting (EWF) has contributed to the development of a new international document addressing Handheld Laser Beam Welding (HLBW), with a strong focus on safety, qualification, and best practices.

This work was carried out within the framework of an international working group, previously announced by EWF earlier this year, established to respond to the rapid industrial uptake of this emerging technology.

Supporting the safe use of an emerging technology

Since 2023, handheld laser welding has gained increasing attention across industry, driven by decreasing equipment costs and the need to improve productivity amid skilled labour shortages.

The newly published document highlights several advantages of HLBW, including:

• higher welding speeds
• lower heat input and reduced distortion
• minimal post-processing
• simplified operation and shorter training time
  
  

At the same time, the document underlines the significant safety challenges associated with the process, particularly:

• laser radiation hazards (including invisible beams)
• reflection risks
• strict requirements for eye protection and controlled working environments
  
  

It emphasizes that safety must remain the top priority, recommending measures such as:

• implementation of Laser Controlled Areas (LCA)
• appointment of a Laser Safety Officer (LSO)
• dedicated operator training
• mandatory use of appropriate personal protective equipment

Towards harmonised international practices

In addition to safety, the document also addresses:

• welder and procedure qualification
• weld quality requirements
• metallurgical aspects across different materials

The objective is to support industry, associations, and standardisation bodies in establishing a harmonised international approach for the safe and effective implementation of HLBW.

EWF’s continued commitment

EWF’s involvement in this publication reinforces its role as a European and international reference for qualification and certification in manufacturing technologies, promoting knowledge transfer and skills development aligned with industry needs.

This initiative reinforces EWF strategic role in:

• anticipating industry needs in emerging technologies
• supporting the development of harmonised qualifications
• contributing to safer and more competitive manufacturing systems
  
  

As HLBW continues to evolve, ensuring the availability of qualified personnel, clear safety frameworks, and aligned standards will be essential to unlocking its full industrial potential.

This work represents an important step towards that goal, supporting stakeholders across the value chain in adopting the technology safely, efficiently, and with confidence.