Arc Welding
Tomeka Jordan
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
Arc Welding Components
Safety Concerns
Electrocution Bystanders
Fires/Explosions Toxic Fumes
Burns Arc Radiation
Arc Eye High Noise Level
Proper use of Safe and Clean
equipment Working Environment
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
Statistics
OSHA Arc Welding Incidents 1991-2004
4
Improper Use of
Equipment
3
Faulty Equipment
Cause of Incidents
3
Wet Enviornment Electroctution
Fire or Explosion
1
Damp Clothing
Improper PPE 3
Gas in Atmosphere
2
0 0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5 3 3.5 4 4.5
Number of Occurences
OSHA Regulations
1926.351
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.
OSHA Regulations
1926.351
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.
OSHA Regulations
1926.351
Cable in need of
repair CANNOT be
used
Ground cables must
be able to carry the
specified maximum
current capacity.
OSHA Regulations
1926.351
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
OSHA Regulations
1926.351
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
Safe Work Practices
Wear 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
Safe Work Practices
Ventilate 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
Safe Work Practices
Electric 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
Safe Work Practices
Equipment 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
Safe Work Practices
Good Housekeeping
Shield others from the
welding area
Work in a clean, clutter
free environment
Secure electrode and
work cables together.
Keep them out of traffic’s
way
Never put yourself
between the electrode
and work cable
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