NASD - Arc Welding Safety

INTRODUCTION

The electric arc welder remains one of our most useful and timesaving pieces of shop equipment. Almost every farm, ranch, and Vocational Agriculture shop is equipped with one or more welders which are used for fabrication, repair, and/or educational programs. Most of these welders are typically AC/DC, 240 volt transformer types using electricity as the energy source. Portable welders are of the diesel/gasoline engine powered type. Properly installed and used the arc welder is very safe, but if used improperly the operator can be exposed to a number of hazards including toxic fumes, dusts, burns, fires, explosions, electric shock, radiation, noise, and heat stress. Any of these hazards can cause injury or death. By following suggestions and guidelines in this pamphlet the risks can be greatly minimized.

For more builders warehouse welding machineinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.

SELECTING THE ARC WELDER

When purchasing an arc welder you can be assured of design safety if the unit complies with National Electric Manufacturers Association (NEMA) standards or the safety standards for arc welders as determined by the Underwriters Laboratories (UL). Be sure that the welder you purchase carries the seal of approval of one of these organizations.

When purchasing an arc welder you can be assured of design safety if the unit complies with National Electric Manufacturers Association (NEMA) standards or the safety standards for arc welders as determined by the Underwriters Laboratories (UL). Be sure that the welder you purchase carries the seal of approval of one of these organizations.

INSTALLING THE ARC WELDER

Prior to installing the arc welder you should determine if your present electrical system is adequate to handle the increased load required by the welder. Your local power supplier or a qualified electrician can assist you in determining this. It is very important for your safety to install the welder in compliance with State of Arizona, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (AOSHA) regulations and the National Electric Code (NEC) by a qualified electrician. Failure to do so could cause fire, a ground fault, or equipment failure. The following rules are not a complete list but are especially important guidelines which should be adhered to:

• The frame or case of the welder shall be properly grounded.
• A safety-type disconnecting switch or controller shall be located near the machine (See Figure 1).
• The welder or welders shall be protected by a properly sized fuse or circuit breaker on an independent circuit.

Prior to installing the arc welder you should determine if your present electrical system is adequate to handle the increased load required by the welder. Your local power supplier or a qualified electrician can assist you in determining this. It is very important for your safety to install the welder in compliance with State of Arizona, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (AOSHA) regulations and the National Electric Code (NEC) by a qualified electrician. Failure to do so could cause fire, a ground fault, or equipment failure. The following rules are not a complete list but are especially important guidelines which should be adhered to:

VENTILATION

The welder should be located in an area with adequate ventilation. In general, when welding is being done on metals not considered hazardous, a ventilation system that will move a minimum of 2000 cubic feet per minute (CFM) of air per welder is satisfactory. However, many materials are considered very hazardous and should be welded only in adequately ventilated areas to prevent the accumulation of toxic materials or to eliminate possible oxygen deficiency not only to the operator but to others in the immediate vicinity. Such ventilation should be supplied by an exhaust system located as close to the work as possible (See Figure 2). When welding or cutting metals with hazardous coatings such as galvanized metal the operator should use a supplied-air type respirator or a respirator specially designed to filter the specific metal fume. Materials included in the very hazardous category are welding rod fluxes, coverings, or other materials containing fluorine compounds, zinc, lead, beryllium, admium, and mercury. Some cleaning and degreasing compounds as well as the metals they were cleaned with are also hazardous. Always follow the manufacturers precautions before welding or cutting in the presence of these materials.

The welder should be located in an area with adequate ventilation. In general, when welding is being done on metals not considered hazardous, a ventilation system that will move a minimum of 2000 cubic feet per minute (CFM) of air per welder is satisfactory. However, many materials are considered very hazardous and should be welded only in adequately ventilated areas to prevent the accumulation of toxic materials or to eliminate possible oxygen deficiency not only to the operator but to others in the immediate vicinity. Such ventilation should be supplied by an exhaust system located as close to the work as possible (See Figure 2). When welding or cutting metals with hazardous coatings such as galvanized metal the operator should use a supplied-air type respirator or a respirator specially designed to filter the specific metal fume. Materials included in the very hazardous category are welding rod fluxes, coverings, or other materials containing fluorine compounds, zinc, lead, beryllium, admium, and mercury. Some cleaning and degreasing compounds as well as the metals they were cleaned with are also hazardous. Always follow the manufacturers precautions before welding or cutting in the presence of these materials.

FIRE PREVENTION

The arc welder is capable of producing temperatures in excess of 10,000 degrees F.,therefore it is important that the workplace be made firesafe. This can be accomplished by using metal sheets or fire resistant curtains as fire barriers. The floor should be concrete or another fire resistant material. Cracks in the floor should be filled to prevent sparks and hot metal from entering. When work cannot be moved to a firesafe area then the area should be made safe by removing or protecting combustibles from ignition sources. In certain welding situations it may be necessary to ask someone to watch for fires that could go undetected until the welder has finished the job.

The arc welder is capable of producing temperatures in excess of 10,000 degrees F.,therefore it is important that the workplace be made firesafe. This can be accomplished by using metal sheets or fire resistant curtains as fire barriers. The floor should be concrete or another fire resistant material. Cracks in the floor should be filled to prevent sparks and hot metal from entering. When work cannot be moved to a firesafe area then the area should be made safe by removing or protecting combustibles from ignition sources. In certain welding situations it may be necessary to ask someone to watch for fires that could go undetected until the welder has finished the job.

Suitable fire extinguishing equipment such as buckets of sand or a dry chemical extinguisher of the ABC type should be readily available. The extinguisher should be large enough for the situation with a 10# size adequate for most farm and school shops.

PERSONAL PROTECTION

It is essential that the operator and helpers be properly clothed and protected because of the heat, ultra-violet rays, and sparks, produced by the arc welder (See Figure 3). For body protection a pair of fire retardant long sleeved coveralls without cuffs is a good choice. Always avoid clothing with tears, snags, rips, or worn spots as these are easily ignited by sparks. The sleeves and collars should be kept buttoned. The hands should be protected with leather gauntlet gloves. A pair o high top leather shoes, preferably safety shoes, is good protection for the feet. If low shoes are worn the ankles should be protected by fire resistant leggings. Eyes should be protected by transparent goggles if the person wears prescription glasses or safety glasses if not. A welding helmet or hand shield with filter plate and cover plate is mandatory for eye protection from the harmful rays of the arc. The filter plate should be at least shade #10 for general welding up to 200 amps. However, certain operations such as carbon-arc welding and higher current welding operations require darker shades. Never use a helmet if the filter plate or cover lens is cracked or broken. A flame-proof skull cap to protect the hair and head as well as hearing protection in noisy situations is recommended.

It is essential that the operator and helpers be properly clothed and protected because of the heat, ultra-violet rays, and sparks, produced by the arc welder (See Figure 3). For body protection a pair of fire retardant long sleeved coveralls without cuffs is a good choice. Always avoid clothing with tears, snags, rips, or worn spots as these are easily ignited by sparks. The sleeves and collars should be kept buttoned. The hands should be protected with leather gauntlet gloves. A pair o high top leather shoes, preferably safety shoes, is good protection for the feet. If low shoes are worn the ankles should be protected by fire resistant leggings. Eyes should be protected by transparent goggles if the person wears prescription glasses or safety glasses if not. A welding helmet or hand shield with filter plate and cover plate is mandatory for eye protection from the harmful rays of the arc. The filter plate should be at least shade #10 for general welding up to 200 amps. However, certain operations such as carbon-arc welding and higher current welding operations require darker shades. Never use a helmet if the filter plate or cover lens is cracked or broken. A flame-proof skull cap to protect the hair and head as well as hearing protection in noisy situations is recommended.

Plastic disposable cigarette lighters are very dangerous around heat and flame. It is very important that they not be carried in the pockets while welding. Always provide protection to bystanders or other workers by welding inside a properly screened area, if possible. If unable to work inside a screened area then protection to others should be provided by a portable screen or shield, or by their wearing anti-flash goggles.

SAFE OPERATION OF THE WELDER

It is important that anyone operating an arc welder be instructed on its safe use by a qualified teacher or welder.

It is important that anyone operating an arc welder be instructed on its safe use by a qualified teacher or welder.

Because of their potentially explosive nature, we strongly recommend that no welding, cutting, or hot work be attempted on used drums, barrels, tanks, or other containers under any circumstances.

If possible, work to be welded should be placed on a firebrick surface at a comfortable height. Welding should never be done directly on a concrete floor. Heat from the arc can cause steam to build-up in the floor which could cause an explosion. The welder cables should be positioned so that sparks and molten metal will not fall on them. They should also be kept free of grease and oil and located where they will not be driven over.

Electric welders can kill by electric shock. If the welding operation must be done on steel or other conductive material an insulating mat must be used under the operator. If the welding area is wet or damp or the operator is actively perspiring then he/she should wear rubber gloves under the welding gloves.

It is easier and safer to establish an arc on a clean surface than a dirty or rusty one. Therefore, metal should always be thoroughly cleaned by wire brushing or other method prior to welding. When chipping slag or wire brushing the finished bead the operator should always be sure to protect his eyes and body from flying slag and chips. Unused electrodes and electrode stubs should not be left on the floor as they create a slipping hazard. Hot metal should be handled with metal tongs or pliers. When quenching hot metal in water it should be done carefully to prevent painful burns from the escaping steam. Any metal left to cool should be carefully marked "HOT" with a soapstone. When welding is finished for the day or suspended for any length of time electrodes should be removed from the holder. The holder should be placed where no accidental contact could occur, and the welder should be disconnected from the power source.

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS FOR ENGINE POWERED WELDERS

• Always operate in an open well-ventilated area or vent the engine exhaust directly outdoors.
• Never fuel the engine while running or in the presence of an open flame.
• Wipe up spilled fuel immediately and wait for fumes to disperse before starting the engine. *Never remove the radiator pressure cap from liquid cooled engines while they are hot to prevent scalding yourself.
• Stop the engine before performing any maintenance or trouble shooting. The ignition system should be disabled to prevent accidental start of the engine.
• Keep all guards and shields in place.
• Keep hands, hair, and clothing away from moving parts.

FIRST AID

The welding area should always be equipped with a fire blanket and a well stocked first aid kit. It is desirable that one person be trained in first aid to treat the minor injuries that may occur. All injuries, no matter how minor they may seem can become more serious if not properly treated by trained medical personnel.

The welding area should always be equipped with a fire blanket and a well stocked first aid kit. It is desirable that one person be trained in first aid to treat the minor injuries that may occur. All injuries, no matter how minor they may seem can become more serious if not properly treated by trained medical personnel.

KEY POINTS TO REMEMBER

• Be sure the welder is properly installed and grounded.
• Never weld without adequate ventilation.
• Take proper precautions to prevent fires.
• Protect your entire body with fire retardant clothing, shoes, and gloves.
• Wear eye protection at all times.
• Weld only in a firesafe area.
• Never do any welding, cutting, or hot work on used drums, barrels, tanks, or other containers.
• Mark metal "HOT" with a soapstone.
• Keep a well stocked first aid kit handy.

Publication #: 8818

This document is apart of a series from the Cooperative Extension, the University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85719. Publication date: May 1989.

Lance Fluegel, Safety Coordinator and Bradley Rein, Engineering Specialist, the College of Agriculture, the University of Arizona, Tucson AZ 85719.

Disclaimer and Reproduction Information: Information in NASD does not represent NIOSH policy. Information included in NASD appears by permission of the author and/or copyright holder. More

When it comes to welding, personal safety is not a choice. As a welder, every decision you make should be guided by safety standards set in place by organizations like the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

Safety is key to having a long and successful career in the welding industry. Here at Universal Technical Institute (UTI), we take extra precaution to ensure our welders-in-training are equipped with the knowledge and skills they need to be safe in the lab and workplace.

Keep reading to learn all about welding safety, including hazards to avoid and important rules to follow.

For more information, please visit mma 500 welding machine.

Is Being a Welder Dangerous?

Welding can be a dangerous occupation when safety guidelines are not followed. If safety measures are ignored, welders can face a variety of hazards, including exposure to harmful fumes and gases, electric shock, fire and explosions and more.

Would it be acceptable for a firefighter to go without his helmet, or a doctor to forego wearing gloves during a critical surgery? Of course not! In the same way, welders must follow a specific set of guidelines to protect themselves and those around them.

Why Welding Safety Is So Important

As welding presents many potential hazards, it’s crucial for welders to practice safety by taking the following steps:

• Analyzing surroundings
• Using tools and equipment in the way they are intended
• Following all manufacturer guidelines
• Ensuring others are not in harm’s way while working

Accidents happen, but many injuries can be avoided by having an understanding of what to do and what not to do when working in a welding environment. Before starting any project, welders must take the time to ensure they know how to execute the task safely above all else. It’s the most important thing they can do to protect themselves and those around them.

Welding Shop Safety: Hazards to Avoid

As mentioned, welders face a variety of potential hazards in the workplace and safety in welding is imperative. Some of the most common include:

Electric Shock

A sudden discharge of electricity to the human body can lead to serious injuries and in some cases, even death. Electrocution can occur when a welder touches two metal objects that have a voltage between them, which inserts them into the electrical circuit. The higher the voltage, the higher the current, which leads to a higher risk for the welder. 

Exposure to Fumes and Gases

Welding fumes contain a variety of potentially harmful metals, including aluminum, beryllium, arsenic, manganese and lead. Gases that contain nitrogen, carbon dioxide, argon, carbon monoxide and hydrogen fluoride are also often produced during welding.

When a welder is overexposed to these fumes and gases, this can lead to serious health problems such as impaired speech and movement, respiratory illness and even cancer.

Physical Injuries

Without wearing the proper PPE (personal protective equipment), welders can experience a variety of physical hazards, including eye damage, cuts, burns or even crushed fingers and toes. These injuries should be taken seriously, as they can put a welder out of work in some cases.

Fire and Explosions

A welding arc produces extreme temperatures and can spark fire and explosion hazards if safety procedures are not followed. While the arc itself can reach temperatures up to 10,000 degrees Fahrenheit, the most common cause of fire is when sparks and spatter come in contact with flammable materials around the work area.

11 Welding Safety Rules to Follow

So how does one avoid these hazards? Here are 11 tips for practicing safe welding:

1. Study ... and Study Some More

The most successful welders know safety procedures like the back of their hand. They take the time to educate themselves on safety guidelines set in place by both national organizations and the company they work for, which helps to ensure a safe, productive workspace for all.

It’s also important for welders to review manufacturer instructions before operating equipment. Welders should never assume they know how to use a piece of equipment before they’ve read and understood the manufacturer’s guidelines for safe operation.

2. Protect Yourself From Fumes and Gases

Exposure to fumes and gases can be controlled by providing adequate ventilation in the work area. Some employers will provide a fan, an exhaust system or exhaust hoods to remove fumes and gases from the area welders are working in.

 

 

When necessary, welders should wear a respirator to protect themselves from breathing in harmful substances. If you ever feel as though your breathing is inhibited, express your concerns to a supervisor immediately.

3. Take Precautions Against Electrocution

Electric shock is one of the most important topics for welders to be educated in, as it can pose an immediate and serious risk.

To avoid electrocution, welders must always inspect the electrode holder for damage before starting their weld. They also must ensure their gloves are dry and in good condition, never touch the metal parts of the electrode holder with skin or wet clothing, and keep dry insulation between their body and the ground or metal being welded.

4. Check Your Equipment

A good welder always checks to ensure their equipment is functioning properly and is fully grounded before using it. Even the most experienced welders should regularly check their equipment for common wear and tear, such as a frayed wires or leaking hoses, as this can increase the chances of an accident occurring. 

If a piece of equipment was running perfectly the day before, don’t assume that it’s still in the same condition. Always do a full inspection before using it again—you can never be too sure!

5. Avoid Clutter

A cluttered workspace is one of the most common causes of welding fires and explosions. Sparks from the welding arc can fly up to 35 feet in distance, so it’s important to keep your workspace clear, especially of any flammable materials.

As a general rule, always stay organized and keep everything in its place. Your workspace should only contain the tools and equipment you’re using for that specific project.

6. Know Your Environment

Before starting a weld, take inventory of your environment. Knowing where tools and equipment are located not only increases your efficiency, but it’s vital for your safety. For example, it’s important to know the location of fire alarms, emergency exits, fire extinguishers, sand buckets or other equipment you would need to put out flames in the event of a fire.

7. Dress for the Job

Wearing the proper attire is critical for welders. Any exposed skin is vulnerable to the harmful effects of infrared and ultraviolet rays, so welders must always ensure they are fully covered. Additionally, pant cuffs, pockets or any loose items of clothing can catch flying sparks, so it’s important to keep them secured.

So what should you wear? Welders must wear flame-resistant clothing with the proper PPE, which brings us to our next point.

8. Wear the Right PPE

Selecting the proper PPE for the job is one of the most important decisions you can make to protect yourself as a welder. Here’s a quick look at the types of PPE welders should wear:

• Ear protection: If readings of noise average above 85 dB for eight continuous hours, you are required to use hearing protection at all times.
• Eye and face protection: This includes safety glasses, face shields and depending on the project, helmets.
• Heat and radiation protection: In order to protect themselves from heat and radiation, welders must wear flame-resistant outerwear, gloves to protect hands and lower parts of the arms, and welding hoods and goggles.
• Fume protection: Fume extraction systems and respirators can help to protect welders from exposure to harmful fumes.
• Electrical shock protection: In addition to taking the safety precautions in welding outlined in tip #3, welders must wear insulated clothing to protect themselves from electrocution.
• Foot protection: Leather shoes that are spark and heat resistant with coverage above the ankle are best for foot protection. Pant legs should go over the shoes.
  

 

9. Avoid Stress Injuries

Welding is a hands-on career that can lead to injuries without following the right precautions. In order to protect yourself, always practice safe lifting techniques and be sure to break up your day to stretch and allow your body to rest. This can help to avoid repetitive stress injuries, which some welders are prone to.

10. Enforce Safety Procedures

As a welder, it’s important to hold yourself and those around you accountable when it comes to following safety guidelines. If you see a safety violation, report it—it’s in the best interest for you and those you share a workspace with! Additionally, if you ever feel unsafe in your work area, don’t be afraid to speak up.

11. Keep Learning

The welding industry is constantly changing and evolving due to technology. As manufacturers release new equipment and new techniques are adopted, it’s important to continuously educate yourself on best practices—for both your skill and safety!

Additional Resources

When it comes to welding safety, there’s no such thing as being too prepared. There is always more to learn! This guide is designed to be a starting point, and it’s important to continuously seek out information from reliable sources in the industry. 

To keep up with the most current safety practices, utilize the following resources: 

Train for a Career in Welding at One of Our Campuses

UTI’s 36-week Welding Technology program can give you the hands-on training you need to become a welder in today’s world.

Industry-standard technology and equipment is used to prepare you for an entry-level career in the field.1 You can attend one of 10 campuses nationwide:

You could graduate from one of these locations with the skills and experience employers are looking for.2

To learn more, visit our program page and request information to speak with one of our Admissions Representatives today.

Want more information on china welding equipment? Feel free to contact us.