Welding

Potential hazards to welders include electric shock, overexposure to fumes and gas, arc radiation, fire or explosion.

Ensure work areas where welding is carried on are clear of flammable material s and waste (including rubbish, oils, rags etc.).

It may be appropriate to cover the floor with a spark and flame resistant covering, particularly where there are cracks and gaps in the flooring.

Erect heat resistant barriers to protect walls, equipment etc. that cannot be removed from the area.

Drain and vent pipe lines that are to be worked on.  Lines in close proximity to welding work are to be protected against heat.  Were these lines contain flammable fluids or gases, they are to be drained and vented if adequate heat protection cannot be afforded.

Ensure appropriate and adequate ventilation.  Supplement natural ventilation with LEV as necessary.  Ensure that vented fume does not create a hazard to people in other areas.

Provide suitable fire extinguishers.

If you require this hazard to be controlled using a permit to work download the documentation from the open access section of this website, fill in and issue to workers.

Ensure welding equipment is regularly inspected and taken out of use as soon as any defect is found.