2. Before starting actual arc welding the
student should be fully aware of the dangers
involved. The high temperature arc and hot
metal can cause severe burns. In addition the
electric arc itself provides an additional safety
hazard.
3. The electric arc emits large amounts of
ultra violet and infra-red rays. Both types of
rays are invisible to the naked eye just as the
same type of rays emitted by the sun are
invisible. However they both have the identical
properties of causing sunburn on the human
skin, except that the arc burns much more
rapidly and deeply. Since these rays are
produced very close to the operator they can
cause very severe burns to the eyes in a short
exposure time.
4. When welding with the electric arc, there is
added danger that the small globules or droplets
of molten metal may leave the arc and fly in all
directions. These so called sparks range in
temperature from 2000 ° to 3000° Fahrenheit
and in size from very small to as large as ¼ inch.
They present a personal burn hazard plus a fire
hazard if they fall in inflammable material.
5. The welding operator needs to protect
himself, by means of a helmet and other
protective devices from the harmful rays of the
arc and flying sparks. The filter plates in the
welding helmet will remove 99% of the harmful
rays if the proper shade lens is used.
6. Other dangers associated with electric arc welding are:
a. Electric shock-which may be caused by
standing in damp areas, welding without gloves, bare
cables, uninsulated holder, etc.
b. Harmful fumes given off in welding process
especially when welding on galvanized or other
coated materials.
7. The operator should be familiar with all
safety precautions and take care to adequately
protect himself at all times against any hazards
associated with arc welding by wearing
protective clothing and equipment, working in
dry conditions, providing adequate ventilation
and in general using good common sense.
8. Following is a list of safety
precautions that should be observed
in the use of the arc welding
equipment.
9. 1. Make sure machine is properly grounded.
2. Never permit “live” parts of the electric welder to touch bare skin or
wet clothing.
3. Do not cool electrode holders by emersion in water.
4. Turn off power supply when welder is not in use.
5. Do not stand on wet areas while welding.
6. Wear leather gloves.
7. Make sure cable are covered and in good condition.
8. Make certain that electrode holders are properly insulated.
10. 1. Protect eyes and face from flying particles of slag by use of safety
glasses or face shield.
2. Wear adequate protective clothing.
3. Always wear leather gloves.
4. Wear high top shoes.
5. Keep collar, shirt pockets, etc buttoned.
6. Do not touch the electrode or metal where welding has taken place.
7. Handle hot metal with pliers or tongs.
8. Keep electrode stubs properly disposed of.
11. 1. Use a welding helmet with the correct shade lens in good condition.
2. Wear suitable clothing—do not leave bare skin exposed to the rays of
the arc.
3. Do not strike the arc without covering the face and eyes. Give
warning to others before striking the arc.
4. Avoid looking directly at the arc where others are welding without
proper eye protection.
12. 1. Work only in well-ventilated areas.
2. Use great care when working on metals covered with lead or zinc.
3. If working in a confined area use respirator or other approved
breathing devices.
13. 1. Keep shop clean in areas where welding is to be done.
2. Do not weld near combustible materials of any kind.
3. Never weld on covered containers which may have held combustible
materials without first taking adequate safety precautions. For
example, fill them with water, steam clean or fill with an inert gas.
14. 1. Be familiar with location and types of fire extinguishers.
2. Report any unsafe conditions that might start a fire.
3. Do not weld near inflammable materials.
4. Do not weld on containers that have held inflammable materials.
5. Do not weld near electrical fittings or lines.
