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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Operate shop equipment correctly 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