OM-249 818 Page 3
Welding on closed containers, such as tanks, drums, or
pipes, can cause them to blow up. Sparks can fly off from the
welding arc. The flying sparks, hot workpiece, and hot
equipment can cause fires and burns. Accidental contact of
electrode to metal objects can cause sparks, explosion, overheating, or fire.
Check and be sure the area is safe before doing any welding.
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Remove all flammables within 35 ft (10.7 m) of the welding arc. If this is
not possible, tightly cover them with approved covers.
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Do not weld where flying sparks can strike flammable material.
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Protect yourself and others from flying sparks and hot metal.
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Be alert that welding sparks and hot materials from welding can easily
go through small cracks and openings to adjacent areas.
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Watch for fire, and keep a fire extinguisher nearby.
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Be aware that welding on a ceiling, floor, bulkhead, or partition can
cause fire on the hidden side.
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Do not weld on closed containers such as tanks, drums, or pipes, unless
they are properly prepared according to AWS F4.1 (see Safety Stan-
dards).
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Do not weld where the atmosphere may contain flammable dust, gas, or
liquid vapors (such as gasoline).
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Connect work cable to the work as close to the welding area as practical
to prevent welding current from traveling long, possibly unknown paths
and causing electric shock, sparks, and fire hazards.
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Do not use welder to thaw frozen pipes.
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Remove stick electrode from holder or cut off welding wire at contact tip
when not in use.
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Wear oil-free protective garments such as leather gloves, heavy shirt,
cuffless trousers, high shoes, and a cap.
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Remove any combustibles, such as a butane lighter or matches, from
your person before doing any welding.
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After completion of work, inspect area to ensure it is free of sparks, glow-
ing embers, and flames.
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Use only correct fuses or circuit breakers. Do not oversize or bypass
them.
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Follow requirements in OSHA 1910.252 (a) (2) (iv) and NFPA 51B for
hot work and have a fire watcher and extinguisher nearby.
WELDING can cause fire or explosion.
