Automotive Service Safety Welding

The fourth safety guidelines must always be followed when storing and transporting compressed gas tanks used for welding

Always keep valves closed when cylinders are empty or not in use. Remember to open them slowly when you start to use them.

STRSW equipment brings with it very different hazards like Fumes

Always use an approved welding respirator and a welding fume extractor. Keep the area ventilated from fumes.

STRSW equipment brings with it very different hazards like Sparks

Always wear PPE to prevent burns. Also, make sure the area is free of all flammable materials such as fuel, butane lighters, oil, and grease.

Burns

Burns to the skin and eyes due to exposure to arc radiation.

when using GTAW or TIG welders, you'll need to protect yourself against

Burns, Electric shock, fume exposure

Electric shock

Comes from power sourced for TIG welding and associated pieces of equipment such as add-on units that require electricity to operate.

The second type of welding used around the automotive shop environment is

Gas Metal Arc Welder (GMAW or MIG)

The third type of welding used around the automotive shop environment is

Gas Tungsten Arc Welder (GTAW or TIG)

Electrical arcing

Gold and silver rings can receive an arc and turn molten. This super-hot molten metal can literally burn fingers off. It's important to know that even necklaces and metal piercings (such as navel, nipple, nose, etc.) can draw an arc under the wrong circumstances.

Health effects from certain fumes

It can cause metal fume fever, stomach ulcers, kidney damage, and nervous system damage. Prolonged exposure to manganese fumes can cause Parkinson's-like symptoms.

The fifth safety guidelines must always be followed when storing and transporting compressed gas tanks used for welding

Light flames according to manufacturer instructions.

The third safety guidelines must always be followed when storing and transporting compressed gas tanks used for welding

Only use cylinders in areas with good ventilation and nothing around them that could burn or explode.

The first type of welding used around the automotive shop environment is

Oxygen/Acetylene Welder

The fourth type of welding used around the automotive shop environment is

Resistance Spot Welders

The first safety guidelines must always be followed when storing and transporting compressed gas tanks used for welding

Store cylinders in dry, ventilated areas on a fireproof floor, away from flammables or heat sources.

Eye injuries

The bright light generated by a welder can actually burn the retina. Always wear a welding helmet with a proper grade of filter plate in order to protect your eyes and face.

Sparks and spatter

The wire welder creates little fountains of flying sparks and small amounts of molten metal spatter than can burn an unprotected person and set small fires. You must protect your body with woolen clothing, a flame-proof apron, gloves, long sleeves, and tight-fitting pants that cover shoes.

Long-term exposure to welding fumes

This can cause lung damage and various types of cancer, including lung, larynx, and urinary tract.

Acute exposure to welding fumes and gases

This can result in eye, nose, and throat irritation, dizziness, and nausea. Workers who display these symptoms need to leave the work area immediately and seek fresh air and medical attention.

The second safety guidelines must always be followed when storing and transporting compressed gas tanks used for welding

When transporting cylinders, strap them to carts so they don't fall or bang into each other. Never drop or roll a cylinder.

STRSW equipment brings with it very different hazards like electric shock

You should use the same caution when around other electrical equipment. Ensure that the area around the welder stays dry. Never cool the tips by immersing them in water. Always inspect all dconnections and wires before each use.

Fume exposure

due to the open arcs which promote the formation of gaseous fumes as a result of the action of ultraviolet light and heat on atmospheric oxygen and nitrogen.

when using GMAW equipment. You'll need to protect yourself against

eye injuries, sparks and spatter, and electrical arcing.

Welding is classified into two groups

fusion (heat alone) or pressure (heat and pressure)

Gases such as helium, argon, and carbon dioxide displace oxygen

if in the air, it can lead to suffocation. This is a particular concern when welding in confined or enclosed spaces. Carbon monoxide gas can form, posing a serious asphyxiation hazard.