Welding Safety Tips – The Rules Our Welders Live By Every Day

At Freehold Welding Inc., we carry out countless welding jobs every week, and yet we never get complacent about the welding process and the dangers it can pose. For this reason, we follow a strict health and safety code that is constantly monitored and updated as necessary. We are proud of our safety record and the strict safety standards we follow on a daily basis. 

Whether you are thinking about welding yourself or you just want peace of mind that our welders work by the rules, here are some of the safety precautions we take. These are precautions that any welder should take, no matter how small the job. 

Be A Safe Welder – Know the Basics

When you are welding using hot materials, chemicals and gases, keeping safe is of the utmost importance. 

These are some of the basic rules you should follow in order to keep yourself and others safe from harm: 

• Always weld using an appropriate face shield. 
• Always wear closed shoes. 
• Always wear a non-flammable, long-sleeved shirt. 
• Proper welding gloves must be worn at all times. 
• Never weld near or on anything that has been cleaned with a chlorinated hydrocarbon solution such as brake cleaner. When mixed with UV light, this can form phosgene gas. This can be fatal to you and anybody else nearby. 
• Always wear ear protection if your face shield does not provide it. Eardrums have been known to get punctured by a stray spark. 

We Understand the Risks and Hazards Present in the Workshop—You Should Too!

The welding workshop can be a dangerous place, but you can make it safe by taking proper precautions. 

Here are a few of the more serious hazards that should be taken into account at all times: 

• Fire – Always make sure the weld area is clear of any flammable materials such as paper, liquids and fabrics. Never wear gloves or clothes that have been exposed to flammable liquids. 
• Electrocution – Always make sure, before switching on the weld machine, that there are no water puddles on the machine or the weld bench. Ensure that the weld machine is completely dry, including the pedal, the plug, the torch and the main machine. 
• Burns – Even after it has been welded, metal will remain hot for several minutes. The heat will usually be localized near the welded part of metal, but could be distributed elsewhere. Always wear gloves, face protection and closed boots when welding to prevent burns from flying sparks, and douse any burns immediately with cold water before seeking further medical attention. 
• UV Burns – The light a weld arc emits can be much brighter than the sun, which is why it is so important that you wear a full-faced welding mask with an appropriate dark filter plate. Always make sure skin is covered and pay specific attention to collar and cuff areas. 
• Compressed Gas – CO₂ and Argon gases are normally found naturally in our atmosphere and are not inherently dangerous. However, if these gases are left switched on in a poorly ventilated area, there is a risk of suffocation. Always store tanks in an upright position and remember to switch them off when not using them. 

Speak to Freehold Welding Inc. at (732) 577 1516 to know more about safety standards and our welding repair services in New Jersey.  You can also use our contact form to get in touch.