SWEISS
WELD.COM
SAFETY
insulate hands.
In semiautomatic or automatic wire welding, the electrode, electrode reel, welding
head, nozzle or semiautomatic welding gun are also electrically “hot”.
Always be sure the work cable makes a good electrical connection with the metal being
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 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 open circuit
voltage of both welders.
When working above floor level, use a safety belt to protect yourself from a fall should
you get a shock.
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 fume. Use enough ventilation and/or
exhaust at the arc to keep fumes and gases away from the breathing zone. When welding with
electrodes which require special ventilation such as stainless or hard facing or on 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 confined spaces or in some circumstances, outdoors, 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 to be used, including the material safety data sheet and follow your
employer’s safety practices.
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