Arc Welding

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Arc Welding

• Tomeka Jordan

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Arc Welding

• Fusion process for joining metals
• An electric arc from a AC or DC power source
  supplies intense heat to join the base material
  and an electrode

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Arc Welding Components
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Safety Concerns

• Bystanders
• Toxic Fumes
• Arc Radiation
• High Noise Level
• Safe and Clean Working Environment

• Electrocution
• Fires/Explosions
• Burns
• Arc Eye
• Proper use of equipment

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Statistics

• Nine cases were investigated by OSHA between
  1991-2004 involving arc welding accidents
• Of these cases, electrocution and
  fires/explosions were the ending results of arc
  welding mishaps

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Statistics
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OSHA Regulations1926.351

• Only use electrode holders specifically designed
  to safely handle the maximum rated current
  required.
• When electrode holders are unattended, the
  electrodes shall be removed and the holders
  placed or protected that they cannot make
  electrical contact with employees or conducting
  objects.

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OSHA Regulations1926.351

• All welding cables should be well insulated and
  repairs or splices must be at least 10ft from the
  electrode. Splices made closer must have the same
  insulating quality as the cable.

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OSHA Regulations1926.351

• Cable in need of repair CANNOT be used

• Ground cables must be able to carry the
  specified maximum current capacity.

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OSHA Regulations1926.351

• Pipelines carrying flammable gases, liquids, or
  electric wires shall NOT be used as a ground
• Pipelines uses as a ground must maintain
  electrical contact at all joints which must be
  bonded and periodically inspected for
  electrolysis or fire hazard

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OSHA Regulations1926.351

• Arc welding machine frames must be ground and the
  ground must be able to break fuse
• When left unattended, remove electrodes and place
  away from conductive materials
• When left unattended or when moving turn the
  machine OFF

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Safe Work PracticesWear PPE

• Proper personal protection equipment shall be
  worn during the entire welding process to prevent
  hazards from the intense rays and sparks.
  Clothing shall be dry and free of holes

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Safe Work PracticesVentilate and Exhaust

• Work in a well ventilated location
• Keep your face away from the welding to avoid
  particulates, toxic fumes and flames
• Use electrodes that produces less fumes if
  possible
• Use a qualified observer and gas level monitor
  when working in confined spaces

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Safe Work PracticesElectric Shock Precautions

• Do not weld near flammable material
• Do not touch live circuits
• Insure that gloves are well insulated and
  clothing is dry
• Work on a insulating mat and wear rubber sole
  shoes
• Avoid welding in moist surroundings and weather

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Safe Work PracticesEquipment Precautions

• Inspect equipment before use
• Know and follow proper operating procedures
• Inspect equipment before use
• Work at recommended voltages
• Turn off equipment when not in use

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Safe Work PracticesGood Housekeeping

• Shield others from the welding area
• Work in a clean, clutter free environment
• Secure electrode and work cables together. Keep
  them out of traffics way
• Never put yourself between the electrode and work
  cable

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Sources

• OSHA 29 CFR 1926 Construction Industry
  Regulations. Subpart J. 1926.351
• Arc Welding Safety- E205. The Lincoln Electric
  Company. www.lincolnelectric.com/community/safety
• The American Welding Society. www.aws.org