WLD/Processes/TBT-WLD-004

TIG Welding Safety

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TIG Welding Safety

Toolbox Talk Record

Ref: TBT-WLD-004  |  Issue: 1  |  Date: March 2026
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What?

  • TIG welding uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode with inert shielding gas.
  • TIG produces intense ultraviolet radiation that causes arc eye and severe skin burns.
  • It is commonly used on stainless steel, aluminium, and thin-gauge metals on construction sites.
  • The shielding gas — typically argon — can displace oxygen in confined or poorly ventilated areas.
  • Some tungsten electrodes contain thorium, which is mildly radioactive when ground to a point.
  • Welding fumes from TIG are generally lower than MIG or MMA but still require extraction.
  • High-frequency start units can cause electrical interference with pacemakers and nearby equipment.
  • COSHH 2002 applies to welding fume exposure and requires assessment and control measures.
  • The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 require safe electrical connections for welding equipment.
  • Welders must hold valid qualifications and work to approved welding procedure specifications.

Why?

Prevent arc eye and burnsTIG produces intense UV that damages unprotected eyes in seconds.
Fume health riskEven low-level welding fume exposure causes long-term respiratory disease.
Asphyxiation riskArgon shielding gas can displace oxygen in enclosed or confined work areas.
Legal complianceCOSHH and Electricity at Work Regulations require controls for all welding operations.
Do Don't
  • Wear a welding helmet with the correct shade filter for TIG work.
  • Use fume extraction at source — even TIG fumes require control.
  • Ensure adequate ventilation when welding in enclosed or confined areas.
  • Check all electrical connections and earth leads before starting work.
  • Wear appropriate PPE including welding gloves, apron, and arm protection.
  • Use ceriated or lanthanated electrodes instead of thoriated where possible.
  • Screen the welding area to protect nearby workers from UV radiation.
  • Inspect gas hoses and regulators for leaks before each use.
  • Follow the approved welding procedure specification for every joint.
  • Store gas cylinders upright, secured, and away from heat sources.
  • DON'T weld without a proper welding helmet — sunglasses are not adequate.
  • DON'T grind thoriated tungsten electrodes without dust extraction and RPE.
  • DON'T use TIG in confined spaces without gas monitoring and ventilation.
  • DON'T leave the shielding gas flowing in enclosed areas when not welding.
  • DON'T allow unscreened bystanders within sight of the welding arc.
  • DON'T use damaged or frayed welding cables or faulty return clamps.
  • DON'T weld on wet surfaces or while standing in water.
  • DON'T use a high-frequency start near workers with pacemakers.
  • DON'T ignore skin irritation or breathing difficulty during welding tasks.
  • DON'T weld without checking for flammable materials in the vicinity.

See also: Welding Safety Awareness | Welding Fume Extraction and LEV
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