1. 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.

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

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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!

6. 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.

7. 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.

8. 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.

9. 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

10. 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.

11. 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.

12. 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.

13. 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

14. 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