SAFETY
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welded. The connection should be as close as possible to the area being welded.
Maintain the electrode holder, work clamp, welding cable and welding machine in good, safe
operating condition. Replace any damaged insulation.
Never dip the electrode in water for cooling.
Never simultaneously touch electrically “hot” parts of electrode holders connected to two
welders because voltage between the two can be the total of the voltage of both welders.
When working above ground level in unenclosed areas, use a safety belt to protect yourself
per local codes.
FUMES AND GASES CAN BE DANGEROUS.
Welding may produce fumes and gases hazardous to health. Avoid breathing these fumes
and gases. When welding, keep your head out of the fumes and have enough ventilation near
the arc to keep fumes and gases away from the breathing zone. When welding with electrodes
which require special ventilation such as stainless, hard facing, lead or cadmium plated steel
and other metals or coatings which produce highly toxic fumes, keep exposure as low as
possible and below Threshold Limit Values using local exhaust or mechanical ventilation. In
some instances, specifically when in small spaces, a respirator may be required. Additional
precautions are also required when welding on galvanized steel.
Do not weld in locations near chlorinated hydrocarbon vapors coming from degreasing,
cleaning or spraying operations. The heat and rays of the arc can react with solvent vapors to
form phosgene, a highly toxic gas, and other irritating products.
Shielding gases used for arc welding can displace air and cause injury or death. Always use
enough ventilation, especially in confined areas, to insure breathing air is safe.
Read and understand the manufacturer’s instructions for this equipment and the
consumables, including the material safety data sheet and follow
employer’s safety practices.
ARC RAYS CAN BURN AND BLIND.
Use suitable, flame-resistant clothing material to protect your skin from the arc rays.
Protect other nearby personnel with suitable, non-flammable screening and /or warn them not
to watch the arc nor expose themselves to the arc rays.
