Welding is a process that has been in use for years now, but without a single realization when it became a necessity, no one really knows. Today without it things like roof welding and new roof installation are not possible. As much important, it is, the practice of welding can be dangerous if proper measures are not strictly followed during the course of work.
Since there are various welding procedures available today, each one of them may require additional precautions. However, there are general industry measures that every welder needs to follow to ensure safety for minimizing the risks.
Assess for Work-area Hazard
Assessing a hazard the moment you arrive at your job site should be on the top of your priorities. This will help you eliminate or at the least recognize any kind of environmental condition or hazard that can increase the risk of electrocution, fire or toxic air conditions. Therefore, do make sure to perform an assessment before starting the project.
Check for the Proper Ventilation
Ventilation in the case of welding refers to the change of room air as often as necessary to prevent the welders as well as the other workers from breathing high levels of air contaminants. To make sure that air is circulating properly, take a walk through the work area and also the area surrounding the location, where you will be welding. Wear a respirator while working. If the work area does not meet the requirement of natural ventilation, mechanical ventilation can be used.
Ensure Personal Protective Equipment
Without a proper personal protective equipment, it is highly recommended not to work. As it is vital to ensure the safety of the welder. The personal protective equipment should include a face shield, goggle fitted with special filters and lenses, welding gloves, jacket, boots, and helmet. If you will be working in a confined space, you must also be fitted with lifelines, safety belts and other protective gears. A trained helper must also stay outside the restricted area to perform rescue if an emergency arises.
Protection for the Head and the Eyes
Irrespective of the fact whether you are working in a confined space or working on a new roof installation in the open. Wearing a helmet and safety glasses is a must. The helmet will protect you from flying projectiles that may be produced while welding. Whereas, the safety glasses will protect your eyes from harmful effects of welding.
Protective Welding Gloves
Welding gloves will protect your hands from the hot temperature encountered while welding. Therefore, ensure that they are in a good shape beforehand. They may wear out with time due to high levels of heat. In order to provide complete safety as per the requirements of welding, there are different types of gloves to give you great dexterity available in the market. If required make the most of them.
Ear Protection is Mandatory
Welding is a process that also includes a high level of noise which can damage your ear drums. In order to avoid such a situation earplugs or any other type of hearing protection can be used to eliminate the risk of projectiles entering your ears. Along with that, they will also ensure you do not damage your hearing while working.
Jacket and the Boots
A welder’s jacket is what will protect you from a majority of injuries caused due to burns. Therefore, do ensure that it is in a good shape. They are specifically made from fire resistant material so that your clothes do not catch fire. Whereas the boots, which are fire resistant are highly recommended. They can be made of leather or a composite material with a steel toe cap. Last but not the least, remember to opt for boots that cover your ankle by at least six to eight inches for better protection.
Your safety will always be in your own hands. By following the basic safety tips to minimize the risk of injury, you can benefit the ones around you as well. So, always ensure to bring your personal protective equipment even while working on a new roof installation or welding an old roof. Before and after the job, verify the equipment for proper working condition. Replace them, if required.