Personal Protection While Welding

It is necessary that the worker and helpers be properly clothed and protected because of the heat, ultra-violet rays, and sparks, produced by the arc welder. For body protection a pair of fire retardant long sleeved coveralls without manacles is a good choice. Always avoid clothing with tears, snags, rips, or worn spots as these are effortlessly ignited by sparks. The sleeves and collars should be kept buttoned. The hands should be confined with leather gauntlet gloves. A pair o high top leather shoes, rather safety shoes, is good defense for the feet. If low shoes are worn the ankles should be protected by fire opposed to leggings. Eyes should be protected by translucent spectacles if the person wears recommendation glasses or safety glasses if not. A welding helmet or hand shield with filter plate and cover plate is mandatory for eye defense from the harmful rays of the arc. The filter plate should be at least shade for common welding up to 200 amps. However, certain operations such as carbon-arc welding and higher current welding operations need darker shades. Never use a helmet if the riddle plate or cover lens is cracked or broken. A flame-proof skull cap to protect the hair and head as well as hearing shield in noisy situations is recommended.

Plastic throwaway cigarette lighters are very dangerous around heat and fire. It is very imperative that they not be carried in the pockets while welding. Always provide protection to bystanders or other workers by welding inside a appropriately screened area, if possible. If powerless to work inside a screened area then protection to others should be provided by a transferable screen or shield, or by their wearing anti-flash goggles