Welding accidents

The majority of welding accidents stem from four specific hazards, according to Terry Byrd, welding product manager for Airgas, Inc., a distributor of welding safety products, who was quoted in Occupational Health & Safety magazine.

• Arc rays: produce ultraviolet infrared rays that burn the eyes and skin; workers should use magnifiers to gauge distances of the rays, so they can stay far enough away, and wear face shields with approved filter and cover plate and safety glasses
• Fumes: can be hazardous if inhaled; proper ventilation must be provided, including smoke extractors and exhaust fans; welders can wear respirators
• Electric shock: high currents can cause death; equipment must be properly maintained and grounded with no loose fittings or exposed live parts; welders should use dry insulating gloves and never touch electrodes or welding wires with bare hands
• Gas cylinders: can explode and send shrapnel flying; welders must protect the cylinder from excess heat and make sure they are insulated and never grounded; cylinders should be checked regularly for leaks and kept free of oil and other lubricants