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Considerations About Welding And The Effects Of Low Frequency
Electric And Magnetic Fields
Welding current, as it flows throughwelding cables, will cause electro-
magnetic fields. There has been and still is some concern about such
fields. However, after examining more than 500 studies spanning 17
years of research, a special blue ribbon committee of the National
Research Council concluded that: “The body of evidence, in the
committee’s judgment, has not demonstrated that exposure to power-
frequency electric and magnetic fields is a human-health hazard.”
However, studies are still going forth and evidence continues to be
examined.Until the final conclusions of the research are reached, you
may wish to minimize your exposure to electromagnetic fields when
welding or cutting.
To reduce magnetic fields in the workplace, use the following
procedures:
1. Keep cables close together by twisting or taping them.
2. Arrange cables to one side and away from the operator.
3. Do not coil or drape cables around your body.
4. Keep welding power source and cables as far away from opera-
tor as practical.
5. Connect work clamp to workpiece as close to the weld as
possible.
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Pacemakerwearersconsultyourdoctor first.If clearedbyyour doctor,
then following the above procedures is recommended.
