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present for some time after the fire
has started. Do not weld or cut in
atmospheres containing
h. Dangerously
reactive
or
flammable gases, vapors, liquids,
and dust.
i. Provide adequate ventilation in
work
areas
to
prevent
accumulation of flammable gases,
vapors, and dust. Do not apply
heat to a container that has held
an unknown substance or a
combustible
material
whose
contents, when heated, can
produce flammable or explosive
vapors.
Clean
and
purge
containers before applying heat.
Vent closed containers, including
castings,
before
preheating,
welding, or cutting.
9. Avoid overexposure to fumes and
gases. Always keep your head out of
the fumes. Do not breathe the fumes.
Use enough ventilation or exhaust, or
both, to keep fumes and gases from
your breathing zone and general area.
!
Where ventilation is questionable,
have a qualified technician take
an air sampling to determine the
need for corrective measures.
Use mechanical ventilation to
improve air quality. If engineering
controls are not feasible, use an
approved respirator.
!
Work in a confined area only if it
is well ventilated, or while
wearing
an
air-supplied
respirator.
!
Follow OSHA guidelines for
Permissible Exposure Limits
(PEL’s) for various fumes and
gases.
!
Follow the American Conference
of
Governmental
Industrial
Hygienists recommendations for
Threshold Limit Values (TLV’s)
for fumes and gases.
!
Have a recognized specialist in
Industrial
Hygiene
or
Environmental Services check
the operation and air quality and
make recommendations for the
specific welding or cutting
situation.
10.
Always keep hoses away from
welding/cutting spot.
Examine all
hoses and cables for cuts, burns, or
worn areas before each use. If any
damaged areas are found, replace the
hoses or cables immediately.
11. Read and understand all
instructions and safety precautions
as outlined in the manufacturer’s
WARNING
INHALATION HAZARD: Welding and
Plasma Cutting Produce
TOXIC FUMES.
Exposure to welding or cutting exhaust fumes
can increase the risk of developing certain
cancers, such as cancer of the larynx and
lung cancer. Also, some diseases that may be
linked to exposure to welding or plasma
cutting exhaust fumes are:
a. Early onset of Parkinson’s Disease
b. Heart disease
c. Ulcers
d. Damage to the reproductive organs
e. Inflammation of the small intestine or
stomach
f. Kidney damage
g. Respiratory
diseases
such
as
emphysema, bronchitis, or pneumonia
Use natural or forced air ventilation and wear
a respirator approved by NIOSH to protect
against the fumes produced to reduce the risk
of developing the above illnesses.
