Safety
Spirit200a User’s Manual Rev J
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Section 1 Safety
General Precautions
Whereas plasma cutting has been used safely for years, it does require
certain precautions to ensure the safety of the operator and other people
around the equipment. The following safety information must be provided
to each person who will operate, observe, perform maintenance, or work
in close proximity to this piece of equipment.
Installation, operation, and repairs made to the Spirit200a system should
only be performed by qualified personnel. The Spirit system makes use of
both A.C. and D.C. circuitry for operation.
Fatal shock hazard does
exist. Exercise extreme caution while working on the system
.
Ultraviolet Radiation Protection
Plasma cutting produces ultraviolet radiation similar to a welding arc. This
ultraviolet radiation can cause skin and eye burns. For this reason, it is
essential that proper protection be worn. The eyes are best protected by
using safety glasses or a welding helmet with an AWS No. 12 shade or
ISO 4850 No. 13 shade, which provides protection up to 400 amperes. All
exposed skin areas should be covered with flame-retardant clothing. The
cutting area should also be prepared in such a way that ultraviolet light
does not reflect. Walls and other surfaces should be painted with dark
colors to reduce reflected light. Protective screens or curtains should be
installed to protect additional workers in the area from ultraviolet radiation.
Noise Protection
The Spirit200a system generates high noise levels while cutting.
Depending on the size of the cutting area, distance from the cutting torch,
and arc current cutting level, acceptable noise levels may be exceeded.
Proper ear protection should be used as defined by local or national
codes. See Section 2 for noise emission levels.
Toxic Fume Prevention
Care should be taken to ensure adequate ventilation in the cutting area.
Some materials give off toxic fumes that can be harmful or fatal to people
in the vicinity of the cutting area. Also, some solvents decompose and
