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Welding and Metal Fabrication

Policy:

Welding, cutting and brazing operations present a series of hazardous situations with potential exposure to burns, eye damage, electrical shock, crushed toes and fingers, and the inhalation of vapors and fumes. Many welding, cutting and brazing accidents result from:

• Inadequately trained personnel.

• Poor housekeeping practices.

• Poor shop layout.

• Inadequate lighting and ventilation.

• Improper storage and movement of compressed gas cylinders.

• Exposure of oxygen cylinders and fittings to oil or grease creating a fire or explosive hazard.

• Pointing welding or cutting torches at a concrete surface causing spattering and flying fragments of concrete.

• Electric shock when motors, generators and other electric welding equipment are not grounded.

• Inhalation of toxic fumes or vapors from welding metals or alloys.

Fires, explosions, and injuries can occur resulting from:

• The proximity of combustible solids, liquids, or dusts.

• The presence or development of possible explosive mixtures of flammable gases and air.

• The presence or nature of an oxygen-enriched atmosphere in locations where hot work is performed.

• Cutters and welders, and other exposed personnel, are also susceptible to eye injury from infrared light and ultraviolet radiation.

Procedures:

The following provides minimum guidance on procedures and operating precautions:

Provide ventilation in shops or rooms where work is to be performed but avoid strong drafts directed at the welding work.

Do not place work to be welded or heated on a concrete floor. Concrete, when heated, may splatter and fly, exposing the welder to possible burns (and also throwing hot particles a considerable distance creating a potential fire hazard).

Provide appropriate protection for welders and helpers when working on elevated surfaces. Welding areas shall be kept neat, clean, and free from tripping hazards.

Provide approved personal protective equipment for welders who must enter confined spaces, manholes or other space restricted areas. Also, provide a means to ensure their quick removal in case of an emergency.

Do not perform cutting and welding operations in sprinklered buildings when the sprinkler system is inoperable; in explosive atmospheres or where explosive atmospheres may develop; or, within 50 feet of storage of large quantities of exposed, readily ignitable materials.

Before lighting the torch for the first time each day, allow enough of each gas to flow through its respective hose to purge any flammable gas mixture.

Purge hoses in open spaces and away from ignition sources. Light the torch with a friction lighter or stationary pilot flame keeping a safe distance between he torch and the welder's hands. Point the torch away from persons or combustible materials when lighting. Do not attempt to light a torch from hot metal.

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