Safety precautions

Following is a list of safety precautions that should be observed in the use of the arc welding equipment.
A.ELECTRICAL SHOCK
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.

B. BURNS
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.
C. Radiant Energy (utlra violet rays, etc.)
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.
D. GASSES AND FUMES
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.
E. Combustible Materials
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.
F. Fire Protection
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.

Respirators
• Must be specific to the hazard
• Must be fitted, cleaned, stored and maintained in accordance to regulation and manufacturers specs
• NIOSH recommends respirators whenever a carcinogen is present