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3. Openings (concealed or visible) in floors or walls can expose combustibles

to sparks.

4. Combustibles adjacent to walls, ceilings, roofs or metal partitions can be

ignited by radiant or conducted heat.

After work, check that area is free of sparks, glowing embers and flames. An

empty container that held combustibles or that can produce flammable or

toxic vapours when heated, must never be welded on or cut, unless the

container has first been cleaned. This includes a thorough steam or caustic

cleaning (or a solvent or water washing, depending on the combustible’s

solubility) followed by purging and inerting with nitrogen or carbon dioxide,

and using protective equipment.

Water filling just below the working level may substitute for inerting.

A container with unknown contents should be cleaned (see paragraph

above). DO NOT depend on sense of smell or sight to determine if it is safe to

weld or cut. Hollow castings or containers must be vented before welding as

they can explode.

In explosive atmospheres, NEVER weld or cut where the air may contain

flammable dust, gas, or liquid vapours.

ELECTRIC ARC WELDING

Comply with precautions in above and this section. Arc welding, properly

done, is a safe process but a careless operator invites trouble. The equipment

carries high currents at significant voltages. The arc is very bright and hot.

Sparks fly, fumes rise, ultraviolet and infrared energy radiates and work pieces

are hot. The wise operator avoids unnecessary risks and protects himself and

others from accidents.

BURN PROTECTION

The welding arc is intense and visibly bright. It’s radiation can damage eyes,

penetrate lightweight clothing, reflect from light coloured surfaces and burn

the skin and eyes. Skin burns resemble acute sunburn, those from gas -

shielded arcs are more severe and painful.

PROTECTIVE CLOTHING (PPE) MUST BE WORN

Wear long sleeved clothing (particularly for gas shielded arc) in addition to

gloves, apron and strong shoes. As necessary, use additional protective

clothing such as leather jacket or sleeves, flameproof apron, and fire-resistant

leggings. Avoid outer garments of untreated cotton. Bare skin protection:

Wear dark substantial clothing, Button collars closed to protect the chest and

neck and button any pockets to prevent entry of sparks.