Welding Safety

Welding presents several hazards to those who are undertaking the activity and others who are in the vicinity. It is important that you are aware of, and understand the controls, for the risks and hazards of welding.

Electric Shock

When welding you are at risk of experiencing a risk of electric shock. A electrical shock is the most serious hazard posed by welding and can result in serious fatalities and injury. You could receive a direct shock or a secondary shock, should you touch part of the welding or electrode circuit at the same time as touching the metal you are welding

When welding you are at risk of experiencing a risk of electric shock. A electrical shock

is the most serious hazard posed by welding and can result in serious fatalities and injury. You could receive a direct shock or a secondary shock, should you touch part of the welding or electrode circuit at the same time as touching the metal you are welding.

You are at even more of a risk if you work in electrically hazardous conditions

while welding.

These could include:

• Damp conditions

• Wearing wet or damp clothing

• Area with metal flooring or structures

• Cramped conditions where you are required to kneel, lie or crouch.

Noise

When carrying out welding activities, you are likely to be exposed to loud, prolonged

noise. A loud noise is considered to be above 85dB(A). A good rule of thumb is that

if you have to shout to be heard the environmental could likely be over 85dB(A) and

hearing protection is recommended.

Exposure to prolonged loud noise can result in noise-induced hearing loss. Noiseinduced hearing loss can have the following side-effects:

• Ringing in the ears, know as tinnitus

• Occasional dizziness, known as vertigo

• Increased heart rate

• Increased blood pressure

UV and IR Radiation

Looking at the intense bloom of UV light when weldin