The Basics of Welding Safety (Part 3)

Heat/Burns/Fire

Welding is hot work! Temperatures can reach 10,000 degrees F. To make matter worse, flux, metal particles and other super heated "bits" can be skipping or flying around as a result of the welding process. This means, of course, that the danger of burns and fires increases dramatically.

Certain precautions therefore have to be taken in order to avoid burns. Bare skin is, of course, not recommended. Flame retardant and fire resistant clothing is necessary. In addition, a certain number of other issues have to be taken into consideration:

• No pockets – With flying super heated debris flying around, pockets are a hazard. Hot pieces can land inside a pocket and burn without being able to fall away.
• Buttoned up collars – Keeping flying debris out of the neck line is essential
• Shirts outside of the pants – Tucking the shirts inside the pants creates the same type of issue that pockets do. Shirts outside of the pants allow the hot particles to fall away rather than simmering.
• Pants without cuffs – Cuffs end up essentially being the same thing as pockets.
• Flammable and combustible material needs to be far from the welding area. Sparks and debris can be projected up to 35 feet or more.
• The rules above about clothing apply to co-workers and others who might be in the immediate vicinity
• Know the location of the fire extinguishers before you start working. Once a fire is blazing, it's too late to go looking for it. Be prepared.

Heat issues

When dealing with temperatures that can reach 10,000 degrees, and complete skin coverage, especially with FR clothing, we are automatically talking about the possibility of heat stress. Understand the symptoms and treatment of heat related health issues and take the appropriate measures. Make sure that you take frequent breaks away from the heat and stay hydrated at all times.

Burns

If burns do occur, follow the proper burn treatment procedures. Water Jel is a great product for treating minor burns. Keep first aid burn products close by and know where they are.