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1 SAFETY
PROTECT YOURSELF AND OTHERS
Some welding, cutting and gouging processes are noisy and require
hearing protection. The arc, like the sun, emits ultraviolet (UV) and
other radiation and can injure the skin and eyes. Hot metal can cause
burns. Training in the proper use of the processes and equipment is
essential to prevent accidents. Therefore:
1.
Wear a welding helmet fitted with a proper shade of filter to protect your face and eyes
when welding or watching.
2.
Always wear safety glasses with side shields in any work area, even if welding
helmets, face shields and goggles are also required.
3.
Use a face shield fitted with the correct filter and cover plates to protect your eyes,
face, neck and ears from sparks and rays of the arc when operating or observing
operations. Warn bystanders not to look at the arc and not to expose themselves to
the rays of the electric-arc or hot metal.
4.
Wear flameproof gauntlet-type gloves, heavy long-sleeve shirt, cuffless pants,
high-topped shoes, and a welding helmet or cap for protection, to protect against arc
rays and hot sparks or hot metal. A flameproof apron may also be desirable as
protection against radiated heat and sparks.
5.
Hot sparks or metal can lodge in rolled up sleeves, trouser cuffs, or pockets. Sleeves
and collars should be kept buttoned and open pockets eliminated from the front of the
clothing.
6.
Protect other personnel from arc rays and hot sparks with a suitable non-flammable
partition or curtains.
7.
Use goggles over safety glasses when chipping slag or grinding. Chipped slag may be
hot and can fly for long distances. Bystanders should also wear goggles over safety
glasses.
FIRES AND EXPLOSIONS
The heat from flames and arcs can start fires. Hot slag or sparks can
also cause fires and explosions. Therefore:
1.
Protect yourself and others from flying sparks and hot metal.
2.
Move all combustible materials well away from the work area or cover the materials
with a protective non-flammable covering. Combustible materials include wood, cloth,
sawdust, liquid and gas fuels, solvents, paints, and coating paper, etc.
3.
Hot sparks or hot metal can fall through cracks or crevices in floors or wall openings
and cause a hidden smoldering fire or fires on the floor below. Make certain that such
openings are protected from hot sparks and metal.
4.
Do not weld, cut, or perform other hot work until the work piece has been completely
cleaned so that there are no substances on the work piece which might produce
flammable or toxic vapors. Do not perform hot work on closed containers, they may
explode.
5.
Have fire extinguishing equipment handy for instant use, such as a garden hose,
water pail, sand bucket, or portable fire extinguisher. Be sure you are trained in its
use.
6.
Do not use equipment beyond its ratings. For example, an overloaded welding cable
can overheat and create a fire hazard.
7.
After completing work, inspect the work area to make sure there are no hot sparks or
hot metal that could cause a fire later. Use fire watchers when necessary.
0463 666 001
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© ESAB AB 2020
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