9
EN
Protecting your-
self and others
Danger from toxic
gases and va-
pours
Persons involved with welding expose themselves to numerous risks, e.g.:
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flying sparks and hot pieces of metal
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arc radiation, which can damage eyes and skin
-
hazardous electromagnetic fields, which can endanger the lives of those
using cardiac pacemakers
-
risk of electrocution from mains current and welding current
-
greater noise pollution
-
harmful welding fumes and gases
Anyone working on the workpiece while welding is in progress must wear suit-
able protective clothing with the following properties:
-
flame-resistant
-
insulating and dry
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covers the whole body, is undamaged and in good condition
-
safety helmet
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trousers with no turn-ups
Protective clothing refers to a variety of different items. Operators should:
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protect eyes and face from UV rays, heat and sparks using a protective
visor and regulation filter.
-
wear regulation protective goggles with side protection behind the protec-
tive visor.
-
wear stout footwear that provides insulation even in wet conditions.
-
protect the hands with suitable gloves (electrically insulated and providing
protection against heat).
-
wear ear protection to reduce the harmful effects of noise and to prevent
injury.
Keep all persons, especially children, out of the working area while any devic-
es are in operation or welding is in progress. If, however, there are people in
the vicinity,
-
make them aware of all the dangers (risk of dazzling by the arc, injury
from flying sparks, harmful welding fumes, noise, possible risks from
mains current and welding current, etc.),
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provide suitable protective equipment or
-
erect suitable safety screens/curtains.
The fumes produced during welding contain harmful gases and vapours.
Welding fumes contain substances that may, under certain circumstances,
cause birth defects or cancer.
Keep your face away from welding fumes and gases.
Fumes and hazardous gases
-
must not be breathed in
-
must be extracted from the working area using appropriate methods.
Ensure an adequate supply of fresh air with a ventilation rate of at least 20 m³/
hour.
