Welding is a fabrication method used in industries such as construction, automotive manufacturing, the aerospace sector and more. A good weld requires extreme skill and precision, for which it is essential to have the best welding supply. However, apart from the skills and equipment, another aspect to keep in mind is safety. Ultimately, welding is a hazardous occupation, posing a lot of major and minor risks for the welder. This blog discusses four major types of welding-related dangers that can compromise a welder’s safety. 

4 Major Types Of Welding Hazards That Can Compromise Welder’s Safety 

Electric Shock 

A significant hazard, electric shock can cause fatalities if proper precautions are not taken. If a welder attempts to change the electrode or contact tip with bare hands, he or she is in danger of being electrocuted as it becomes a closed electrical circuit. Damaged cables or missing insulators can also cause electrocution. 

Exposure To Fumes

Welding can release multiple toxic gases into the atmosphere in the form of chemical fumes. Some common chemicals are aluminum, beryllium, manganese, lead, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, hydrogen fluoride and more. Inhaling these chemicals can lead to respiratory problems such as pneumonia, occupational asthma and lung cancer. It can even affect the nervous system resulting in speech and movement problems. Hence, it’s extremely vital to stay shielded from these fumes. 

Physical Injuries

While physical injuries are always a risk in any fabrication process, in welding, the risks are further compounded. Apart from cuts, burns, and crushing of extremities, not using a proper PPE kit and protective eyewear can also lead to cuts or abrasions in the eye caused by slivers of dust, metal or other contaminants in the air. Lastly, the intense flash generated during the welding process can burn the cornea, leading to a condition called welder’s flash. 

Fire And Explosions

Being exposed to fire is the most significant danger of all. Improper welding safety practices can lead to major fires or explosions in a workshop. Since the welding arc generates very high temperatures, the resulting errant sparks and spatters created during the process can ignite other flammable materials nearby. Hence, it’s absolutely vital to store any flammable materials away from the welding station. 

Welding is no doubt a dangerous job, and welding hazards must be avoided at all costs for a safe and beneficial welding career. The various safety tips that one can follow to prevent these hazards will be discussed in the next installment. 

Lock8 is a premium welding supply store based out of Port Colborne and Stoney Creek, Ontario. We stock a multitude of welding equipment  and parts. We even offer rentals on premium welding machines. Contact us today to know more about our products and services.