How to Stay Safe When Gas Welding

When gas welding, it’s vital to be aware that you’re handling a product that could be dangerous and should be treated with care. Knowing how to stay safe when gas welding is important at every step of the way, be it when transporting the gas cylinders, storing them or using them.

Here at Adams Gas, we can help you make sure that you’re taking the right measures to stay safe during the welding process. You can check out some of our safety tips below:

What Are the Most Common Dangers Associated with Gas Welding?

 

First of all, knowing the possible dangers linked to gas welding is crucial and you should always keep them in mind. After all, according to the Health and Safety Executive (PDF), when dealing with oxygen or fuel gas equipment, knowing the main hazards associated with them can help to prevent injury and damage to property.

Some of these dangers include:

• Risk of fire caused by heat or sparks, as well as contact with the flame or molten metal
• Burns from contact with the flame or the hot metal
• Crushing or impact injuries when handling and transporting cylinders
• Fumes created during flame cutting
• And so much more

Setting Up for the Weld

 

Before starting to weld, you need to make sure that you have the right tools and equipment, as it’s crucial that you never work with faulty equipment. You should also check for any potential leaks! In addition, make sure that the gas cylinders are not exposed to artificial heat and that there is no grease or oil in the gas equipment.

During Gas Weld

 

It goes without saying that you need protective gear when you weld, so that you can prevent any injuries to yourself. Always wear the right safety gear – for instance, if using an oxygen cylinder, also wear specified safety glasses to shield your eyes from potential damage.

You should also wear the appropriate gloves, overalls and safety boots. If you’re doing MIG welding or TIG welding, wear the appropriate shield to protect yourself as well. It’s important that you work on a surface that is not flammable, such as metal, and that the area is well-ventilated to diffuse any potentially harmful fumes.

Because gas can burn or explode when in contact with open flames, have the correct fire safety measures in place, such as keeping a fire extinguisher nearby and ready to be used at a moment’s notice.

After Welding

 

Always keep your gas or oxygen cylinders separate from each other and ensure that all valves have been closed. Because they’re easily flammable, you should keep all combustible materials away from – the cylinders should also be stored far away from any heat source.

They should be positioned in an upright manner and secured so that they don’t fall over. If transporting gas cylinders, make sure that there is minimal movement so as not to disturb the gas.

 

Everyone at Adams Gas believes in the motto ‘safety first’! When welding, keep in mind that both flames and gas cylinders can be incredibly dangerous if not handled with care. If you wish to learn more about our range of gas cylinders for welding, don’t hesitate to contact us today and we’ll be more than happy to help with anything you require.