SECTION 12 - HEALTH HAZARDS

NO. 40 WELDING

Welding is the fusion of two pieces of metal by heat. The two most commonly used in the
construction industry are:-

 Gas Welding.
 Electric Arc Welding.

Gas Welding:

Main hazards associated with gas welding are:-

 Fires and explosions.

 Burns to eyes and skin due to hot surfaces and molten lead.
 Exposure to fumes - respiratory disorders e.g. cutting metalwork covered with lead paint.

Electric Arc Welding:

Main hazards associated with electric arc welding are:-

 Electric shock.
 Fire.
 Burns to eyes and skin due to molten metal and ultra violet light.
 Exposure to fumes - respiratory disorders e.g. metal fume fever welding galvanised steel or
steel containing zinc.

Precautions

 Cylinders must be stored securely in upright position.

 Fit flash back arrestors to oxygen and acetylene cylinders.
 Clear combustible materials from area. Keep fire extinguisher close to the working area.
 Wear appropriate protective equipment -
 Eye protection
 Gloves
 Overalls
 Boots / spats
 Respiratory if working in poorly ventilated area
 Screen areas of electric arc welding to prevent exposure of UV light to others
 Do not leave trailing hoses or cables on the floor creating tripping hazards.

Issue No. 01 Revision 00 10th February 2002

Talk No. 40 Page No. 1