Most Overlooked Welding Hazard in Arc Welding and Ways to Avoid Them
One of the most famous welding processes is the arc welding. In this process, electrical current is used to produce the heat needed for welding. The current passes through the MMA welding machine, the torch and electrode to the welding pieces. Arc welding is usually used in mining, oil extraction and drilling industries.
Like any other welding applications, arc welding can also be a safe process when sufficient measures are taken to the welder from potential dangers and also when proper operating practices are followed. However, sometimes major hazards are often overlooked in arc welding which could result in a catastrophe.
So to make sure that you are fully protected in your next arc welding process, here are the most overlooked welding hazards that you may encounter while welding:
Fumes and Gases
These two elements are called the silent hazards which can cause acute or chronic illnesses if proper precautions are ignored. Because they are byproducts, fumes contain solid particles from the electrodes and base metal coating. The gasses on the other hand contain oxides including nitrogen and ozone. Argon, helium and carbon dioxide are the gases that are used for shielding and are non-toxic. However, as they are released as a byproduct, they displace oxygen in the air you breathe which can cause dizziness, unconsciousness and even death if exposed to a very long period of time.
Safety processes you can do
- Keep your head out of the fumes
- Be sure to have enough ventilation including turning on the exhaust to remove fumes and gases out of the work area. Also cross-ventilation must not be blocked when working, and welding should not be done in a confined space.
- Avoid getting too close to the arc and avoid the plume. You can even use a corrective lens to help you maintain the proper distance
- For semiautomatic welding processes use a smoke extractor-type welding gun
Arc Rays and Sparks
Arc rays and sparks can injure your eyes and burn your skin. These are the most obvious hazards in the workplace and therefore should not be taken lightly.
- Protect your eyes and face with a properly fitted welding helmet with the correct filter grade. Use the right helmets for various welding applications. Infrared can burn your retina and can cause cataracts. Exposure to UV rays can cause “welder’s flash” which can result to swelling, fluid excretion and temporary blindness.
- Be sure also to use durable and flame-resistant welding apparel such as flame-proof gloves and apron, leather leggings and high boots to protect your body from welding splatter and arc flash. Also keep your clothing free from grease and oil which may ignite.
- Always wear safety glasses with side shield when welding
Electric chock
Ironically, even if most welders know that they are using electric current in their process, they tend to forget the fact that electric shock can kill. If you come in contact with equipment or metal parts that are electrically “hot” it may result in an injury or death. Thus extra precaution should be taken at all times.
- Never remove panels without unplugging the power cord or switching off the power.
- Be sure that you are insulated
- Do not lean on your workpiece
- Use rubber mats, plywood and other dry insulation materials as well as a hole-free gloves while working
- Check the equipment and make sure it is properly grounded, in good condition and installed appropriately
- Electric current can cause electric and magnetic fields that may interfere with pacemakers and can affect your health in many ways. Consult your physician If you have a pacemaker before pushing through your arc welding project.
- Avoid or at least limit your exposure to EMF. Never place your body between two cables or coil the electrode lead around your body and most importantly do not work next to the welding power source.
Welding might have a higher risk compared to other professions. However, it only takes common sense, proper equipment and strict discipline to avoid accidents. If you think that your current equipment might put your health, safety and quality of work at risk, then it is time to invest into innovative equipment, welding products, consumables as well as personal protection equipment.
Call AWS Sales at +61 8 8374 3415 or visit awssales.com.au
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