Spirit II User’s Manual
Section 1: Safety
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Section 1: Safety
General Precautions
Whereas plasma cutting has been used safely for years, it does require certain
precautions to ensure the safety of the operator and other people around the
equipment. The following safety information must be provided to each person who will
operate, observe, perform maintenance, or work in close proximity to this piece of
equipment. Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
Installation, operation, and repairs made to the Spirit system should only be performed
by qualified personnel. The system makes use of both A.C. and D.C. circuitry for
operation.
Fatal shock hazard does exist. Exercise extreme caution while working
on the system
.
Ultraviolet Radiation Protection
Plasma cutting produces ultraviolet radiation similar to a welding arc. This ultraviolet
radiation can cause skin and eye burns. For this reason, it is essential that proper
protection be worn. The eyes are best protected by using safety glasses or a welding
helmet with an AWS No. 12 shade or ISO 4850 No. 13 shade, which provides protection
up to 400 amperes. All exposed skin areas should be covered with flame-retardant
clothing. The cutting area should also be prepared in such a way that ultraviolet light
does not reflect. Walls and other surfaces should be painted with dark colors to reduce
reflected light. Protective screens or curtains should be installed to protect additional
workers in the area from ultraviolet radiation.
Noise Protection
The system generates high noise levels while cutting. Depending on the size of the
cutting area, distance from the cutting torch, and arc current cutting level, acceptable
noise levels may be exceeded. Proper ear protection should be used as defined by
local or national codes. See Section 2 for noise emission levels.
