Welding Safety The Basics In order to perform

Welding Safety – The Basics In order to perform the basic welding processes safely, welding operators need to know and understand the six major areas of welding safety.

Six Major Welding Safety Topics o - Electric Shock o - Visible light, Infrared and Ultraviolet Radiation o - Burns o - Fumes and Gasses o - Fire o - Explosion

Electric Shock o Be certain that there is a well established path for the flow of electric current (ground clamp). o Never allow your body to complete the electric circuit. (Electricity will follow the path of least resistance) o Inspect equipment to ensure it is in good working order. o Ensure all welding equipment is properly installed per code and mfg. instructions. o Avoid welding in a wet or damp environment. (Wet gloves, water on floor, etc. ) o Use common sense.

Visible Light, Infrared and Ultraviolet radiation o Use the proper filter plate for the welding process and amperage level being performed. o Be certain welding helmet is not compromised. o Cover all exposed skin. o Never stare/look at an open arc. o Use flash screens to protect others.

Burns o Wear appropriate clothing and gloves. o Wear leather footwear, preferably steel toe work boots. o Assume all metal in a welding environment is hot and act accordingly. o Avoid torn or tattered garments. o No polyester or nylon garments, ever!

Fumes and Gases o Make certain that the work area is properly ventilated. o Keep your head out of the welding smoke plume. o Do not position yourself between the work and the ventilation source. o Remove all chemical de-greasing residue, paint and grease/oil from metal prior to welding. o Use partial mask or other PPE if you have respiratory problems.

Fire o Remove all flammable material from the immediate work area. o Thoroughly check work area for “hot spots” when welding is completed. o Have fire extinguishers in the work area and know how to use them. o Use a Fire Watch when working in an area with flammable materials that cannot be removed.

Explosion o When welding containers that contained flammable materials, follow established safe working procedures. o Keep paint, solvent and other chemicals out of the work area. o Secure compresses gas cylinders well away from the work area. o When in doubt, error on the side of caution.

Proper Shop Attire for Welders o Long pants and long sleeve shirt made from cotton or flame retardant fabric (at a minimum). NO SHORTS!!!!!! o Leather cape/sleeve combination or coat (preferred). o Leather footwear (steel toe boot preferred). o Safety glasses o Leather work gloves o Spark cap for out of position welding

Safety Precautions for the Hand Grinder o Be aware of where your sparks are flying. o Always wear a face shield. o Clamp small pieces in a vise. o Make sure the switch is turned off before plugging the grinder in.

Safety Precautions for the Stationary Grinder o Keep fingers away from the grinding wheel. o Never grind on the side of the wheel. o Do Not use the grinder if the support is more than 1/8” away from the wheel. o Clamp small pieces in a vise-grip. o Keep the guard in its proper position.

Proper Cooling Techniques o Always cool (IF APPLICABLE)as soon as possible. o Use a pliers to handle hot materials. o Dip material slowly in water, a little at a time. o Hot material submerged in water will produce steam, which could scald your skin.

In Conclusion: o Working with the common arc welding processes being used in manufacturing can be done in a safe manner if the following steps are taken: n Know and follow safe working practices n Follow equipment manufacturers operating instructions closely n Use good judgment and common sense

z z z z o o o o ALSO………. Operate shop equipment correctly receive instruction readily and follow directions be a good citizen control temper show enthusiasm about work have pride in your work Avoid wasting materials and man hours provide self-discipline and restraint strive for self-improvement keep a neat appearance keep work area neat and clean use all tools for what they are intended to be used for respect others and their property