The act of welding can be particularly dangerous if the right precautions aren’t taken. Since many of the common welding processes and procedures involve an open flame or an electric arc, the risk of burns from the fire is high. The safety practices are universally applicable and can apply to anyone dabbling in a spot of welding; whether professional or DIY.
You may or may not know the ‘dress code’ for a welder; but any exposed skin is a no-no. Unprotected skin is susceptible to the damaging effects of the UV and infrared rays, as well as the sparks from the flame. You can never be too careful with your clothing; as sparks can even catch in an open pocket, pant cuffs and even down a shirt that’s not fully buttoned up. Make sure your shirt is fully buttoned up, your cuffs are rolled down and any front pockets aren’t exposed. This may seem like a given, but don’t keep matches or lighters in your pockets.
Double check your attire before you get welding!
Dress the Part
The well-dressed welder will always have the correct PPE; including safety glasses, a welding jacket, a protective, auto darkening helmet, welding gloves, an apron, suitable pants (without cuffs) and leather shoes.
Neither shorts or any short-sleeved shorts will help you in protecting yourself when welding. Never think ‘Its just a quick job- it won’t matter’- Because even this needs the correct safety gear, including the helmet, gloves and suitable clothing. When shopping around for you welding clothes, try finding flame resistant clothing. However, jeans and a shirt made from tightly woven material with a welding jacket will do the job.
In the past, there has been welders claiming the jackets are too heavy, hot and restrictive, but this is now a thing of the past. Specialists now make welding gear as light as a feather and flame resistant. They are also non-restrictive and protective in all ways. With your welding gloves, the same goes- but please note that they aren’t advised to use to pick up just-welded material!
Don’t Forget to Breathe!
It’s all great having the PPE and your clothing perfect, but don’t forget about them fumes! The fumes and smoke emitted from your welding can pose a serious health hazard. Some of the time you will be welding in a confined space, where toxic fumes or shielding gasses may accumulate and fill the air.
You need to make sure there is clean air or a space to go get oxygen away from the workspace. Some materials specifically require respirators when welding them, so make sure you look at the welder’s data sheet to get to know your correct procedures.
Lighting Strikes
One of the biggest dangers to a welder is not wearing a helmet. It’s not quite like riding a bicycle; if you forget your helmet in this environment it could cause serious harm and possibly death.
The light from the sparks can cause damage to your eyes, as they are extremely bright. The sparks jumping onto your clothes is one danger but them going near or on your face is even more extreme.
Welding helmets should be fitted with a proper filter shade to protect the face and eyes and should be worn even if just spectating. And just because you have your helmet on, this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t wear safety glasses also; safety glasses with side shields and ear protection should be worn under a helmet. You can install screens or barriers in the space to protect others from the arc.
Pick and choose your lens shade tailored to your welding application. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration provide a handy guide to choosing the perfect lens for your criteria.
There are many safety concerns when welding, and this criterion of safety should become an integral part of your work and corporate culture. By following these few simple rules, and generally double checking and following the correct procedures, you can expect no incidents and an improvement in productivity.
Adams Gas understand the importance of safety regulations- especially when it comes to the dangers of welding. We are proud to supply such a vast range of welding gases, including both MIG welding gas and TIG welding gad. If you would like to know any more information about our range of products to suit your welding needs, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team.
