ESAB PowerCut 1600, Service Manual

Page: 7 / 184

1.0
7
SECTION 1 SAfETY PRECAuTIONS
fined, or if there is danger of falling.
1. Be sure the power source frame (chassis)
is connected to the ground system of the input
power.
2. Connect the workpiece to a good
electrical ground.
3. Connect the work cable to the work-
piece. A poor or missing connection can expose
you or others to a fatal shock.
4. Use well-maintained equipment.
Replace worn or damaged cables.
5. Keep everything dry, including cloth-
ing, work area, cables, torch/Piston, and power
source.
6. Make sure that all parts of your body
are insulated from work and from ground.
7. Do not stand directly on metal or
the earth while working in tight quarters or a damp
area; stand on dry boards or an insulating platform
and wear rubber-soled shoes.
8. Put on dry, hole-free gloves before
turning on the power.
9. Turn off the power before removing
your gloves.
10. Refer to ANSI/ASC Standard Z49.1
(listed on next page) for specific grounding recom -
mendations. Do not mistake the work lead for a
ground cable.
ELECTRIC AND MAGNETIC
FIELDS — May be dangerous. Elec-
tric current flowing through any con -
ductor causes localized Electric and
Magnetic Fields (EMF). Welding and
cutting current creates EMF around
welding cables and welding machines. Therefore:
1. Welders having pacemakers should consult
their physician before welding. EMF may interfere
with some pacemakers.
2. Exposure to EMF may have other health
effects which are unknown.
3. Welders should use the following proce-
dures to minimize exposure to EMF:
A. Route the electrode and work cables
together. Secure them with tape when possible.
B. Never coil the torch or work cable
around your body.
C. Do not place your body between the
torch and work cables. Route cables on the same
side of your body.
D. Connect the work cable to the
workpiece as close as possible to the area being
welded.
E. Keep welding power source and
cables as far away from your body as possible.
FUMES AND GASES -- Fumes
and gases, can cause discomfort
or harm, particularly in confined
spaces. Do not breathe fumes and
gases. Shielding gases can cause
asphyxiation. Therefore:
1. Always provide adequate ventilation in
the work area by natural or mechanical means.
Do not weld, cut, or gouge on materials such as
galvanized steel, stainless steel, copper, zinc, lead,
beryllium, or cadmium unless positive mechanical
ventilation is provided. Do not breathe fumes from
these materials.
2. Do not operate near degreasing and spray-
ing operations. The heat or arc rays can react with
chlorinated hydrocarbon vapors to form phosgene,
a highly toxic gas, and other irritant gases.