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Fire hazard. Welding on closed containers, such as tanks,drums, or pipes, can cause them
to explode. Flying sparks from the welding arc, hot work piece, 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.
• The welding sparks may cause fire, therefore remove any flammable materials away from the working
area, at least 12m from the welding arc. Cover flammable materials and containers with approved covers
if unable to be moved from the welding area.
• Do not weld on closed containers such as tanks, drums, or pipes, unless they are properly prepared
according to the required Safety Standards to insure that flammable or toxic vapors and substances are
totally removed, these can cause an explosion even though the vessel has been “cleaned”.
Vent hollow castings or containers before heating, cutting or welding. They may explode.
• Do not weld where the atmosphere may contain flammable dust, gas, or liquid vapours (such as petrol)
• Have a fire extinguisher nearby and know how to use it. Be alert that welding sparks and hot materials
from welding can easily go through small cracks and openings to adjacent areas. Be aware that welding
on a ceiling, floor, bulkhead, or partition can cause fire on the hidden side.
Gas Cylinders. Shielding gas cylinders contain gas under high pressure. If damaged, a cylin-
der can explode. Because gas cylinders are normally part of the welding process, be sure to
treat them carefully. CYLINDERS can explode if damaged.
• Protect gas cylinders from excessive heat, mechanical shocks, physical damage, slag, open flames,
sparks, and arcs.
• Insure cylinders are held secure and upright to prevent tipping or falling over.
• Never allow the welding electrode or earth clamp to touch the gas cylinder, do not drape welding cables
over the cylinder.
• Never weld on a pressurised gas cylinder, it will explode and kill you.
• Open the cylinder valve slowly and turn your face away from the cylinder outlet valve and gas regulator.
Gas build up. The build up of gas can causes a toxic environment, deplete the oxygen content
in the air resulting in death or injury. Many gases used in welding are invisible and odourless.
• Shut off shielding gas supply when not in use.
• Always ventilate confined spaces or use approved air-supplied respirator.
Electronic magnetic fields. MAGNETIC FIELDS can affect Implanted Medical Devices.
• Wearers of Pacemakers and other Implanted Medical Devices should keep away.
• Implanted Medical Device wearers should consult their doctor and the device manufacturer before going
near any electric welding, cutting or heating operation.
Noise can damage hearing. Noise from some processes or equipment can damage hearing.
Wear approved hearing protection if noise level is high.
hot parts. Items being welded generate and hold high heat and can cause severe burns.
Do not touch hot parts with bare hands. Allow a cooling period before working on the welding
gun. Use insulated welding gloves and clothing to handle hot parts and prevent burns.
