Arc Welding Safety: Protecting Against Burns, Electric Shock, and Fumes, Slides of Applied Mechanics

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Arc Welding Safety

Safety Precaution

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.

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.

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.

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.

Following is a list of safety

precautions that should be observed

in the use of the arc welding

equipment.

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.

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.

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.

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.