The American Welding Society has identified more than 80 types of welding and allied processes in commercial use. Some of the more common types include oxygen-acetylene, gas-metal, gas-tungsten arc welding (TIG), shielded-metal arc welding, resistance welding, and brazing. Welding and cutting are not without risk and may lead to eye and skin injuries, respiratory hazards, electric shock, and fire in confined spaces.
Eye Injuries
Welding and cutting operation are a major source of eye injury. Related accidents occur when proper personal protective equipment is not worn. The most common eye injuries result from flash burn, metal flying into the eye, and particulates falling into the eye. The only measure that will prevent eye injury is the use of appropriate personal protective equipment. It is important not to wear contact lenses while welding or near where welding is taking place.
The welder also must be concerned about the effects of the welding operation on nearby personnel and should always use a welding curtain or wall.
Skin Injuries
Injuries to the skin usually result from ultraviolet rays or from hot metal. The hot metal may be the material being worked on, or it may be part of equipment.
Unprotected skin is at risk to injury. In addition to burns, it is easy for exposed skin to be cut during work with sharp metal. Proper safety shoes, clothing, and personal protective equipment will greatly reduce the chances of skin injury.
Respiratory Hazards
Without adequate ventilation or when adequate personal protective equipment is not used, the threat of respiratory injury greatly increases. Before welding, the welder should know what the metal is and the potential effects of the fumes produced.
Inhaling welding fumes or gas can produce metal-fume fever, the symptoms of which include a dry, metallic taste in the mouth; fatigue; nausea; and muscular and joint pain. Depending on the metal or alloy, the results can be fatal.
Adequate ventilation (natural, mechanical, or respiratory) must be provided for all welding, cutting, brazing, and related operations. Adequate ventilation means enough ventilation so that a person’s exposure to hazardous concentrations of airborne contaminants is maintained below the level set by provincial and federal standards.
Electric Shock
Whenever electricity is used, a potential for electric shock exists. Only trained personnel should operate welding equipment. Be sure equipment is properly installed, inspected, operated, and maintained. Equipment should be inspected before use. Consider:
- Placement of welding machines
- Placement of cables
- Load protection
- Use of electrodes and holders
Always be aware of the potential for electric shock when welding
Fire Hazard
Welding and cutting should be done in designated areas that are free of flammable materials or conditions favorable to fire or explosion. If your utility has a hot-work permit program, make sure to follow its requirements. Before and during the welding operation, the welder, and safety watch should
- Inspect the area for flammable and combustible material before welding or cutting begins
- Cover cracks or floor openings, and
- Have fire extinguishers on hand
During welding, constantly watch for fires between walls, opposite sides of metal partitions, or in any concealed place.
Confined Spaces
Because of the small size and questionable atmosphere in most confined spaces, welding and cutting in such spaces require very serious thought and planning. The safety regulations dealing with welding and cutting in confined spaces should be reviewed.