Page 111 - HIL Operatives Training Manual V4 16022024_Neat

O P E R A T I V E S T R A I N I N G M A N U A L V E R S I O N 4

22.3 Electric Welding (MIG-TIG-ARC)

Electric Welding of Mild Steel has been classified as a Class 1 Carcinogen as from February
2019 and as a result Respiratory Protective equipment is now compulsory unless you are using
suitable and sufficient LEV. This includes all welding outside.

• This equipment is only to be operated by trained competent persons.
• At all times where practicable local exhaust ventilation systems are to be used and
where this is not possible suitable respiratory equipment must be worn.
• Users are to be aware of the location and method of operation of the emergency isolator
switched in the welding area.
• All equipment must be suitably earthed and all connections sound. Frayed or damaged
cables are to be repaired or renewed. The welding return lead should be regularly
inspected to ensure it remains well insulated to prevent the conductor touching an
adjacent earth and hence producing an alternative path.
• The welding return lead clamp should be kept clean to make a low resistance
connection to the work piece. (The same principle applies to the safety earth clamp).
• Protective clothing i.e. face masks, leather gauntlets and leather aprons or special fire
protective overalls are to be worn during electric arc welding.
• Electrode holders must always be isolated from welding sets before changing
electrodes.
• There is a significant risk to operators and others from "Arc Eye", a painful condition
caused by the intense light of welding without the use of adequate eye protection.
Operators are to wear filter lens Grade 3 (C.E. marked) fitted to face shields when
carrying out welding and, in addition, dark sight screens are be used to protect others
who pass or work close by.
• Face shields with clear glass of at least Grade 2 Standard are to be used when de-
slagging arc welds.
• Operators are not to wear metallic jewellery as this could make contact with the
electrode.
• When the equipment is not in use or if it is to be left unattended it should be switched
off and the electrode removed.

Precautions

• Cylinders must be stored securely in an upright position.
• Fit flash back arrestors to oxygen and acetylene cylinders.
• Clear combustible materials from working area.
• Keep fire extinguisher close to the working area.
• Respiratory protection to be worn if working in poorly ventilated area, ensure LEV is
working
• 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.
• Wear appropriate protective equipment -
• Eye protection
• Gloves
• Overalls
• Boots / spats

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