Welding is one of the oldest professions in human history, and the industry has helped build countless civilizations. Today, welders help build the structures we live and work in and the tools we use to fix problems around us. It’s a highly rewarding and lucrative business, but it’s not without its hazards. Here are three safety rules you should always follow when welding.
Wear Your P.P.E.
The best way to stay safe in the workshop is by always wearing personal protective equipment. Welders’ bodies are vulnerable to toxic fumes, open flames, heat exposure, and sharp objects. P.P.E. ensures welders can work efficiently while staying safe from hazards.
What comprises proper welding clothing and equipment? Fire-resistant clothing, eye coverings, weld masks, gloves, steel-toed boots, respirator masks, and padded clothes all protect welders while they work. If you weld or run a welding business, ensure that everyone in the workshop properly wears their P.P.E.
Keep Surfaces Clear
A flowing workshop is a safe workshop, so ensure your space is clear of any hazards. That means keeping worktables clear of tools and other equipment. Additionally, maintain a navigable, tidy floor design that reduces the chance of falling. Lastly, eliminate any accumulations of dust—these piles are prone to spontaneous combustion and threaten the lives of everyone in the workshop.
Ensure Effective Ventilation
The most important safety rule to follow when welding is ensuring proper ventilation. Unless your operation is solo-run out of a home garage, you must have fume extractors and natural dilution methods in place.
Fume extractors utilize negative draft and high-quality filters that remove toxic particles from the air supply. Natural dilution uses doors and windows to create an effective flow out of the workshop. Consider ceiling fans and hatches to further protect your welders and their workshop.
Staying safe within a welding work environment is of utmost importance, and everybody should be aware of proper protocol. Consult your local legislation to ensure total protection within the workshop.
