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2.1 Health Hazard Information
The actual process of welding is one that
can cause a variety of hazards. All appropriate
safety equipment should be worn at all times, i.e.
headwear, respiratory, hand and body protection.
Electrical equipment should be used in accordance
with the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Eyes
The process produces ultra violet rays that can
injure and cause permanent damage. Fumes can
cause irritation.
Skin
Arc rays are dangerous to uncovered skin.
Inhalation
Welding fumes and gases are dangerous to the
health of the operator and to those in close
proximity. The aggravation of pre-existing
respiratory or allergic conditions may occur in some
workers. Excessive exposure may cause conditions
such as nausea, dizziness, dryness and irritation of
eyes, nose and throat.
2.2 Personal Protection
Respiratory
Confined space welding should be carried out
with the aid of a fume respirator or air supplied
respirator as per AS/NZS 1715 and AS/NZS 1716
Standards.
•
You must always have enough ventilation in
confined spaces. Be alert to this at all times.
•
Keep your head out of the fumes rising from
the arc.
•
Fumes from the welding of some metals could
have an adverse effect on your health. Don’t
breathe them in. If you are welding on material
such as stainless steel, nickel, nickel alloys
or galvanised steel, further precautions are
necessary.
•
Wear a respirator when natural or forced
ventilation is not good enough.
Eye protection
A welding helmet with the appropriate welding
filter lens for the operation must be worn at all
times in the work environment. The welding arc
and the reflecting arc flash gives out ultraviolet
and infrared rays. Protective welding screen and
goggles should be provided for others working in
the same area.
Recommended filter shades for arc welding
Less than 150 amps
Shade 10*
150 to 250 amps
Shade 11*
250 to 300 amps
Shade 12
300 to 350 amps
Shade 13
Over 350 amps
Shade 14
*Use one shade darker for aluminium
Clothing
Suitable clothing must be worn to prevent
excessive exposure to UV radiation and sparks. An
adjustable helmet, flameproof loose fitting cotton
clothing buttoned to the neck, protective leather
gloves, spats, apron and steel capped safety boots
are highly recommended.
2.0 Recommended Safety Precautions
