How to Inspect Welding Equipment to Ensure Safety

Proper inspection and maintenance of your welding equipment is important for your protection and for extending the life of your welder. Some areas of wear may not present a problem, so it's important to know which ones are potential safety hazards.

Instructions

1. Inspect your welder visually for any obvious damage. Heavy rusted areas or large dents may indicate an improperly maintained welding unit that requires close inspection before use. Maintain your welder according to your owner's manual to prevent unnecessary repairs.

2. Check the electrical power supply cord for damage, such as nicks or frays. Examine the two cords coming from the welder to the ground clamp and the electrode clamp. Replace all damaged cords before beginning a welding job to prevent electrical shock from exposed wires.

3. Observe electrode holders and ground clamps for loose cable connections, faulty jaws or bad insulation. Ensure that the work cable makes a good electrical connection with the base metal and that all clamps and connections are in good condition.

4. Unplug your welder from the electrical outlet and replace all faulty components before you begin your welding project.

Tips & Warnings

• Read warning labels and instruction manuals for advice on maintenance and repair for your specific equipment.

• Extend the life of your cables by avoiding kinks and keeping them away from other power tools in your shop. When not in use, roll them up and hang them on the welder or some other safe place.

• Use the cables that came with your welder or approved replacements. Avoid using cables that are undersized, spliced or otherwise damaged.