Steel Shop Welding Checklist
Welding can be a rewarding profession and activity for professionals and students to undertake when they observe proper safety precautions. Whether you are welding in a shop class through a school, or at a professional shop, go through a checklist of safety precautions to help ensure a safe environment for yourself and those around you.
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The Tools
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Examine all the tools you will be using prior to getting started. Check the connections of various pieces of equipment for tightness and settings. Make sure the settings are appropriate for the job you will be performing. In addition to checking the welding-specific tools, also examine your grinder discs, cutoff wheels, chipping hammers, pliers and wire brushes, according to Miller Electric.
The Shop
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Keep the shop in an uncluttered and clear condition. Remove any obstructions in pathways, ground any metal on metal and arrange your tools in an orderly manner away from heavily trafficked areas. A safe work space is one that is dry, clean and devoid of any flammable solvents or liquids.
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Safety Clothing
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Your checklist of protective clothing will include safety glasses and a welding helmet (with current ANSI certification), flame-resistant clothing and gloves. Also, be sure to button the cuffs and pockets of your clothing and protect your skin at all times. The most common injury that welders suffer are burns from when sparks land on uncovered skin. Purchase and use both gloves and shoes of high quality leather, appropriate for the type of work you are doing.
Ventilation
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Ventilation is crucial to your health and safety while welding and is easily achieved. Simply open the windows or doors while you are working. Make use of an exhaust fan if an open window does not seem sufficient.
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References
- Photo Credit welding image by glgec from Fotolia.com
