There are different welding techniques that require different types of welders, but it’s important to always wear the appropriate safety equipment. Brands like Hobart can provide you with all the equipment you will need to ensure your safety. Know the hazards of welding and how you can stay safe while getting the job done with the following tips provided by Blain’s Farm & Fleet.
One of the biggest dangers when welding is exposure to arc rays, known as arc flash. Arc flash is a burn of the outer layer of the eye, which is caused by intense exposure to UV radiation from electric welding arcs. It’s essentially like a sunburn, only on your eye. There are a number of ways to protect yourself from arc flash. You’ll need the right protective eye wear, including safety glasses and a welding helmet.
Fumes and gases are created from the different base metals used in welding, making proper ventilation a must to ensure your safety. The area you’re welding in should have a ventilation system with either an exhaust fan or hood. The easiest way to stay safe is by keeping your head out of the fume plume, which is the area where welding fumes collect.
When you’re on the job, consult with your employer about what type of metal you’re working with. Different metals release different gases, each having their own side effects. It’s also important to review OSHA regulations to ensure your workplace is safe.
One of the most serious risks of welding is electric shock. It can cause injury or death from the shock itself, or a fall from reacting to the shock. To protect yourself from electric shock, you need to insulate yourself from the metal you’re welding. Don’t touch the metal that is being welded, especially if you have wet clothing or bare skin. It’s important to wear dry gloves, and have dry insulation to stand or lie on.
When it comes to welding safety, the first step should be eye protection, which you can find in a variety of brands including Hobart. Always wear safety glasses or goggles to protect your eyes from slag chips, wire wheel bristles, or grinding debris; these hazards can actually ricochet under your helmet. Safety glasses also come in handy to help protect against arc flash. However, you need to wear a helmet for total protection.
Welding helmets are meant to protect your face, neck, and ears, as well as to protect your eyes from arc flash rays and weld spatter. There are a variety of welding helmets with different features such as auto darkening, switching speed, solar power and sensitivity adjustment. Whichever helmet you choose, make sure you wear it. You can further protect your head even more with a welding cap or doo-rag.
You will want to cover all parts of your body when welding. When you’re welding, the metal can spark or splatter causing burns as well as from the radiation from the arc rays. Arc flash is one of the most dangerous parts of welding.
Wear flame-resistant welding gloves to protect your hands from not only flames but radiation. Look for gloves with an insulated lining to protect your hands from high radiation. There are also welding gloves available with an arm gauntlet cuff. The extended cuff will cover part of your forearm, giving you more protection.
Don’t cuff or roll up your clothing. Sparks can become lodged in pockets, rolled-up sleeves, or pants. Your clothing should be made from durable materials, like wool, leather or heavy cotton. We also recommend wearing a welding apron, welding sleeves or welding jacket for extra protection. All of these protective items can be found in the Hobart brand at your local Blain’s Farm & Fleet.
