Welding, Cutting and Brazing for Construction: Methods

While there are some universal dangers, different hot work methods also have unique dangers of which
you should be aware.

Oxyacetylene Torch Safety

Oxygen
• Oxygen helps objects burn
• Keep gloves, oxygen fittings and
connections free from oil or grease
because oxygen reacts explosively
with these substances
• Store oxygen and flammable gases
at least 6 meters (20 feet) apart or
use a half-hour fire-rated partition at
least 1.6 meters (5 feet) tall to
separate storage areas
Acetylene
• Acetylene is the most commonly used fuel gas
• It is very flammable and can ignite at a wide
range of concentrations
• Acetylene becomes unstable at high
pressures, so NEVER use acetylene at
pressures above 104 kPa (kilopascals) or 15
psi (pounds per square inch)
• Keep acetylene cylinders in an upright position
because acetylene is stabilized in acetone
liquid that may spill or get into the regulator if
a cylinder is stored on its side

Before you open oxyacetylene welding gas cylinders:

• Perform a visual pre-use inspection
• Gather tools (if needed)
• Blow out the cylinder valve before connecting the regulator (open valve slightly and close it)
• Check for leaks after making new connections

When you open oxyacetylene welding gas cylinders:

• Open cylinder valves slowly to guard against regulator failure
• Stand to one side of the regulator to avoid any potential flying debris
• Keep any adjustment tools nearby so you can quickly close valves in an emergency

Before you light an oxyacetylene torch:

• Purge oxygen and acetylene passages individually BEFORE lighting the torch
• Keep the tip pointing away from your body

To safely light an oxyacetylene torch:

• Keep the nozzle pointed away from your body
• Light the flame with a long-handled flint striker
• Open and light the acetylene first, then open and adjust the oxygen to a neutral flame

When you finish the job:

• Close the oxygen torch valve first, then the acetylene torch valve
• Close the valves on both cylinders
• Open the oxygen torch valve 1/2 turn and purge the oxygen
• Close the oxygen torch valve and turn the regulator adjusting screw off
• Open the acetylene torch valve 1/2 turn and purge the gas
• Close the acetylene torch valve and turn the regulator adjusting screw off
• Neatly coil the hoses and properly store the equipment

This job aid is intended to provide you with supplemental information associated with UL courseware.
© COPYRIGHT Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. All rights reserved.
Welding Gas Cylinder Safety
• Always keep gas cylinders secured-during storage, transportation and use
• Keep protective caps over cylinder valves except during use
• Remove regulators and replace caps before you transport cylinders
• NEVER store full or empty oxygen cylinders with flammable gases

Arc Welding
Arc welding is a common type of welding that uses electricity as the energy source. Arc welding creates
an electrical arc hot enough to melt metal. When arc welding, be aware of the danger of burns, fires
and electrical shock. Electrical shock can cause injury or death, so it's important to take the risk
seriously.

Follow these arc welding guidelines:

• Use well-insulated electrode holders and cables that are in good condition
• Make sure welding cables are dry and free of grease and oil
• Keep the ends of welding cables apart
• Wear dry, hole-free gloves; clothing should also be dry
• Never touch the electrode or metal parts of the electrode holder with skin or wet clothing
• Dry any insulation between your body and metal

Remember: Stick electrodes are always electrified, even when you are not welding.

Positioning and Personal Protective Equipment

Position your body to avoid fumes, sparks and slag.

SAFE CLOTHING UNSAFE CLOTHING

• Wool, denim, canvas or heavy cotton • Synthetic fibers
• Fitted • Frayed or worn
• Long-sleeve shirts, welding jackets or • Unbuttoned cuffs or open pockets
coveralls • Material with grease and solvents

For any welding, cutting or brazing work, wear appropriate personal protective equipment including:
• A welding helmet or welding goggles
• Insulated welding gloves
• Fire-resistant (FR) sleeves
• Fire-resistant or leather cape or shoulder covers (for overhead work)
• Leather shoes
• A respirator and earplugs or earmuffs (for some operations)

Make sure welding helmets or goggles have the appropriate filter lens for the job at hand. Never use a
helmet if the filter plate or cover lens is cracked or broken.

This job aid is intended to provide you with supplemental information associated with UL courseware.
© COPYRIGHT Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. All rights reserved.