- 4 -
Welding produces fumes and gases. Breathing these fumes and gases can be
hazardous to your health. Keep your head out of the fumes. Do not breathe the
fumes.
Work in a confined space only if it is well ventilated, or while wearing an air-sup-
plied respirator.
Do not weld in locations near degreasing, cleaning, or spraying operations. The
heat and rays of the arc can react with vapors to form highly toxic and irritating
gases.
Do not weld on coated metals, such as galvanized, lead, or cadmium plated steel.
Fumes And Gases Can Be Hazardous
Arc rays from the welding process produce intense visible and invisible (ultraviolet
and infrared) rays that can burn eyes and skin. Sparks fly off from the weld.
Wear an approved welding helmet fitted with a proper shade of filter lenses to
protect your face and eyes from arc rays and sparks when welding or watching (see
ANSI Z49.1 and Z87.1 listed in Safety Standards).
Wear approved safety glasses with side shields under your helmet.
Use protective screens or barriers to protect others from flash, glare and sparks;
warn others not to watch the arc.
Wear body protection made from durable, flame−resistant material (leather, heavy
cotton, wool). Body protection includes oil-free clothing such as leather gloves, heavy
shirt, cuffless trousers, high shoes, and a cap.
Arc Rays Can Burn Eyes And Skin
Electric welding produces sparks which can be discharged considerable distances
at high velocity igniting flammable or exploding vapors and materials.
DO NOT operate electric arc Welder in areas where flammable or explosive
vapors are present.
DO NOT use near combustible surfaces. Remove all flammable items from the
work area where welding sparks can reach (min. of 35 feet).
Always keep a fire extinguisher nearby while welding.
Use welding blankets to protect painted and or flammable surfaces; rubber
weatherstripping, dash boards, engines, etc.
Ensure power supply has properly rated wiring to handle power usage.
Welding And Cutting Sparks Can Cause Fire Or Explosion
ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELDS CAN BE A HEALTH HAZARD!
The electromagnetic field that is generated during arc welding may interfere with
various electrical and electronic devices such as cardiac pacemakers. Anyone using
such devices should consult with their physician prior to performing any electric
welding operations.
Exposure to electromagnetic fields while welding may have other health effects
which are not known.
