Welding Hazards
It is widely know that welding is a dangerous profession. There are so many things that could go wrong and result in serious injury. Here you will find a list of the most common welding hazards and how you can prevent them. Welding hazards are one of the leading causes of injuries on construction sites. Most welding accidents could have been prevented if the person had taken the time to follow welding safety precautions.
What Are Welding Safety Hazards
- Hazardous Gases And Fumes. Several different gases are released during the welding process. A few of them are nickel,asbestos,manganese, and carbon monoxide. Harmful gases can be released from the material that is being welded or even the paint and protective covering that is on it. Exposure to metal fumes have been known to cause flu like systems such as fever,body ache,sore chest,coughing,wheezing and nausea. The gases that are found in welding smoke can cause side effects such as bronchitis or loss of appetite, vomiting and cramps. The best way to avoid inhaling these toxic chemicals is to wear a protective face cover. By making sure you mouth and nose are properly covered it will reduce the risk of injury due to hazardous gases and fumes.
- Noise Welding Hazards. Constant exposure to loud noises can permanently damage hearing. Studies have also linked heart disease due to high blood pressure and stress which are your bodies natural reaction to noise. OSHA requires that all employers must test for noise levels to determine the threat it may cause. The easiest way to prevent hearing loss or other noise related injuries is to make sure all employees are using OSHA approved ear safety protection such as a noise canceling headset.
- Electrical Welding Hazards. While it is highly unlikely it is still possible to suffer from electrical shock while welding. It is always a bad idea to weld or use any equipment in an area that has water on the floor or in small tight spaces where there is minimal room to move around. Gloves should be worn at all times while welding not just to prevent electrical shock but to help prevent other hand related injuries.
- Lifting just like so many other jobs lifting is a major welding hazard. Some of the metals that require welding can be very heavy. It is always a good idea to follow proper lifting safety rules. Always bend at the knees and never try to lift something that is too heavy for you to carry safely by yourself.
- Safety Glasses
- Faceshield
- Leather Apron
- Flame Resistant Overalls
- Hard Hat
- Knee Length Boots
- Steel Tipped Work Boots
- Arm and Thigh Protective Sleeves
Welding Hazards Personal Protection Equipment
If you job requires that you do some welding it is important to make sure you are wearing the proper protective safety gear. Failing to wear the correct safety gear could result in serious injury or death. In order to protect yourself from welding hazards you should always wear the following items.
These are just a few of the most important welding hazards just like with every other job it is important for your safety and the others around you to know what the welding hazards are and how you can prevent them from inflicting injury. Make sure you learn and follow all welding safety rules and regulations. It is the only way you can be sure you are working correctly and preventing unnecessary injuries.
