Welding Safety Comprehensive Overview
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Welding Safety Comprehensive Overview
Welding encompasses multiple processes including MIG, TIG, MMA (stick), oxy-fuel, and flux-cored arc welding, each with specific hazards. All welding produces carcinogenic fumes, ultraviolet radiation, heat, sparks, and the risk of electric shock. On construction sites, welding also introduces fire risk from sparks landing on combustible materials. A comprehensive understanding of welding hazards and the controls required for each process is essential for every welder and anyone working nearby.
- Use local exhaust ventilation positioned within 200mm of the weld to capture fumes at source.
- Wear the correct welding helmet with the appropriate lens shade for the process and amperage.
- Inspect all welding equipment, cables, and earth returns before each use and reject any with damage.
- Obtain a hot works permit and maintain a fire watch for 60 minutes after completing all welding.
- Erect welding screens to protect nearby workers from arc radiation and spark projection.
- Wear flame-retardant clothing, welding gauntlets, and a leather apron for all arc welding tasks.
- Ensure the work area is dry and use insulating mats when welding in damp or confined conditions.
- Select the lowest fume-generating process and consumables suitable for the weld specification.
- Attend health surveillance including lung function testing if you regularly carry out welding work.
If a welder receives an electric shock, isolate the welding power supply before touching them. Call 999. For arc eye, irrigate both eyes with clean water and seek medical treatment.
- Welding fumes are classified as carcinogenic — fume extraction is now required for all welding.
- The correct lens shade must be used for each welding process to prevent arc eye from UV radiation.
- Electric shock risk is highest with MMA (stick) welding, especially in damp or confined conditions.
- Hot works permits and a 60-minute fire watch are required for every welding task on construction sites.
- Welding screens must be used to protect all nearby workers from harmful arc radiation exposure.
- Health surveillance including lung function tests is required for workers who weld regularly.
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