Welding Safety
Welding Safety
The welding process can be potentially dangerous. To perform welding functions safely, welding operators need to be familiar with the seven major areas of welding safety.
1. Electric current - Be certain that there is a well-established path for the flow of electric current and do not make yourself a part of that path! Inspect all welding equipment and cables to ensure that they are in good working order. Make sure that all equipment is installed according to any applicable code and manufacturer's instructions. And avoid welding in wet or damp environments.
2. Visible light, Infrared, and Ultraviolet Radiation - The welding process produces light across the spectrum. Use the proper filter plate for the welding function. The higher the welding amperage, the higher the shade number required. Make sure welding helmet functions correctly before welding. Cover all exposed skin and use welding screens to protect those in the welding area. The visible and non-visible light can be very harmful to your eyes, never weld or tack without a helmet!
3. Prevent burns - Welding is hot, and the welding arc can routinely reach 10,000 degrees! Wear appropriate clothing and gloves. Avoid torn, tattered or synthetic materials such as nylon or polyester. And always assume that any material in the welding area is hot and treat it with respect.
4. Fumes and Gases - The welding process creates fumes and smoke. If possible, use a fume extraction system to capture any harmful fumes. Make sure that the area in which you are working is well ventilated. Do not position your head between the welding arc and your ventilation source. Remove all chemical de-greasing residue, paint, and hydrocarbons (grease, oil) from metal prior to welding.
5. Fire - Remove all flammable material from the welding area. Thoroughly check for “hot spots” when welding is completed. Have fire extinguishers in the work area. Know where they are and how to use them! If working in an area with elevated fire risk cannot be avoided, employ a person to be “fire watch.”
6. Flammable material - If welding on containers that once contained a flammable material, follow safe working procedures - or avoid it if possible. When in doubt, do not proceed. Keep aerosol containers, solvents, or paint from the welding area. Ensure that your compressed gas cylinder is chained and away from the work area. Again, when in doubt, err on the side of caution.
7. Noise - The noise from a GMAW arc can be as loud as 95 decibels (dB). OSHA limits noise exposure to 85 dB for eight hours. Flame cutting and arc gouging can exceed 100 dB. ALWAYS WEAR EAR PROTECTION!!! You only get one pair of ears, make sure that you keep them safe.
Always remember that the equipment used for welding and cutting is potentially dangerous. Misuse of equipment can lead to injury and death. But if you know and follow safe working practices, follow equipment manufacturers operating instructions, and use good judgement, welding can be done in a manner which is safe to the operator and others!