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.
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
  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