Welding Safety - The basics that everyone should know
Everyone should know the basics of welding and welding safety. These important details outline the basics you should know to protect yourself and others from the hazards of welding. Whether you're a novice or a pro, you'll find this information to be presented in a way you can relate to and apply right away. Remember, welding safety isn't just for welders. Anyone who comes into contact with welding should have a general awareness of common hazards and how to adequately protect themselves from danger and harm.
Topic #1: Safety Information Sources
There are many sources of safety information, some more reliable than others. As you search through all the available information, how do you determine what is relevant to you and your situation? How can you keep from being overwhelmed? Can you trust the internet? Sure, there are many great resources - but you should focus your search in these key areas for the best results:
Topic #2: Safety Hazards - The Five Most Common Hazards
If you've been around welding, it's likely that you've heard things like "watch the arc!" Ironically, that really means DON'T look at the arc! This is just one example of how safety hazards can misunderstood and directions can be misleading. Knowing a few basic facts will allow you to take adequate precautions to protect yourself and others from welding hazards.
Following proper safety protocol and using personal protective equipment is the key to protection from the hazards and potential dangers of arc welding. Here are some common arc welding hazards along with guidelines for dealing with them. Remember, each situation is unique and may have special requirements that can be referenced in ANSI Z49.1. |
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Topic #1: Safety Info Sources
Topic #2: Safety Hazards
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1. Electricity
Electric shock can kill and arc welding often uses electricity to generate heat. Hazards are present during the installation, operation and servicing of equipment. |
Protect yourself and others from electric shock!
1. Do NOT touch a live electrode or electrical parts. 2. Insulate yourself from the work and ground. 3. Always wear dry insulating gloves. 4. Replace worn or damaged cables. 5. Keep guards and covers in place. 6. Disconnect power before installing or servicing. |
2. Intense Light (UV/IR)
Arc rays can burn your skin and eyes. This may be referred to as welder's flash or burn that can lead to permanent injury. |
Protect your eyes and skin from arc rays!
1. Always wear safety glasses with side shields. 2. Use a welding helmet with shaded welding filter. 3. Wear complete body protection to cover exposed skin in fire resistant material. |
3. Sparks, spatter and fumes
These welding byproducts can cause fire, burns and breathing impairment that could lead to long-term permanent injury, property damage and even death. |
Clear the "Weld Zone" to protect yourself and property! 1. Weld in areas that block arc rays, spatter and sparks. 2. ALWAYS inspect and safeguard against fire. -Remove any items that are not flame/fire resistant -NEVER weld or cut around fire hazards or fumes 3. ALWAYS have adequate ventilation and avoid breathing fumes directly. |
4. Heat sources and hot materials
High temperatures can cause severe burns and fire. Heat from welding and cutting can burn or melt things nearby or in direct contact with the hot metal, electrode or other heat source |
Protect yourself and property against burns!
1. Consider everything HOT in the weld zone. 2. Use designated tools for handling equipment. 3. Wear appropriate gloves and clothing to shield yourself from hot materials. |
5. Pressurized gas cylinders
Pressurized and potentially flammable or inert gases are often used for welding and cutting. |
Handle and store gas cylinders properly!
1. All cylinders should be clearly marked for contents. 2. Follow specific rules for handling and storing gases. 3. Only allow approved suppliers to fill a cylinder. 4. Know the dangers of using each gas in your area. -Fuel gases can be flammable and explosive -Oxygen presents unique hazards and is extremely dangerous -Inert gases can replace breathable air and cause asphyxiation |