Welding can be dangerous and unhealthy if the proper precautions are not in place. Therefore, risks of injury and death in association with welding are greatly reduced when we use new technology and proper protection.
PPE
Welding is classified as a hot work process and many common procedures involve an open electric arc or flame. Because of this, the risk of burns and setting fires is extensive. The use of personal protective equipment encourages the prevention of injury. They can come in the form of heavy leather gloves and protective long-sleeve jackets. Wearing these items helps to avoid exposure to extreme heat and flames.
Arc eye or flash burns are when the brightness of weld areas in which ultraviolet light causes inflammation of the cornea. As a result, it can burn the retinas of the eyes. Helmets and goggles with UV-filtering face plates are useful to prevent exposure to this sort of damage. Anyone in the vicinity should certainly be behind translucent welding curtains for protection.
Ventilation
Dangerous gases and particulate matter are generally a product of welding. Some processes produce smoke which contain particles belonging to different types of oxides. Welders lacking proper ventilation and training can risk exposure to fumes and gases, such as carbon dioxide, ozone, and fumes containing heavy metals. Exposure to manganese welding fumes, even at low levels consiquently leads to neurological problems or to damage of the lungs, liver, kidneys, or central nervous system. Therefore, it is for that reason that welding is carried out with adequate ventilation in a workplace. This is to prevent the enrichment of oxygen and to prevent the buildup of flammable atmospheres. Local exhaust ventilation systems should be in place to remove fume and gases from the welder’s breathing zone. All welders should be wearing appropriate respiratory protective equipment. Be aware that respiratory protective equipment should not replace the use of mechanical ventilation.
