Health Hazard Information; Personal Protection - Linde BOC Smootharc Advance MIG 425R Operating Manual

1.1

Health Hazard Information

The actual process of MIG welding is one that can cause a variety of hazards.
All appropriate safety equipment should be worn at all times, i.e. headwear,
hand and body protection. Electrical equipment should be used in accordance
with the manufacturer's recommendations.
Eyes
The process produces ultra violet rays that can injure and cause permanent
damage. Fumes can cause irritation.
Skin
Arc rays are dangerous to uncovered skin.
Inhalation
Welding fumes and gases are dangerous to the health of the operator and
to those in close proximity. The aggravation of pre-existing respiratory or
allergic conditions may occur in some workers. Excessive exposure may cause
conditions such as nausea, dizziness, dryness and irritation of eyes, nose and
throat.
1.2

Personal Protection

Respiratory
Confined space welding should be carried out with the aid of a fume
respirator or air supplied respirator as per AS/NZS 1715 and AS/NZS 1716
Standards.
→ You must always have enough ventilation in confined spaces. Be alert to
this at all times.
→ Keep your head out of the fumes rising from the arc.
→ Fumes from the welding of some metals could have an adverse effect on
your health. Don't breathe them in. If you are welding on material such as
BOC Smootharc Advance III MIG 425R & 555R Operating manual
stainless steel, nickel, nickel alloys or galvanised steel, further precautions
are necessary.
→ Wear a respirator when natural or forced ventilation is not sufficient.
Eye protection
A welding helmet with the appropriate welding filter lens for the operation
must be worn at all times in the work environment. The welding arc and the
reflecting arc flash gives out ultraviolet and infrared rays. Protective welding
screen and goggles should be provided for others working in the same area.
Recommended filter shades for arc welding
Less than 150 amps Shade 10*
150 to 250 amps Shade 11*
250 to 300 amps Shade 12
300 to 350 amps Shade 13
Over 350 amps Shade 14
*Use one shade darker for aluminium.
Clothing
Suitable clothing must be worn to prevent excessive exposure to UV radiation
and sparks. An adjustable helmet, flameproof loose-fitting cotton clothing
buttoned to the neck, protective leather gloves, spats, apron and steel
capped safety boots are highly recommended.
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