NEWS- COVER STORY 7 OPTICAL RADIATION
The welding process produces a large quantity of visible light, ultraviolet and infrared. Exposure to the radiation from an arc causes burns to the skin, and damage to the eyes. For this reason, welders need to wear clothing to protect their bodies and arms, regardless of the weather conditions. They also need efficient eye protection, which is usually supplied in the form of a protective shield. The precise choice of the shade of glass filter in these shields depends on the type of welding operation, since they vary in their light output. Welders assistants’ also need protective clothing and eye protection. Passers-by should be protected by placing opaque or properly filtered screens around the work area.
BURNS AND MECHANICAL HAZARDS Welders need good quality gloves, preferably leather gauntlets, safety boots or shoes and good quality cap and overalls. A leather apron may also be needed. Welding produces quantities of molten droplets of metal which are scattered in all directions. It is essential that the welder wears clothing which will not burn or melt, and which is stout enough to provide adequate protection.
In a workshop environment, suitable safety footwear is essential.
GAS BOTTLES
Gas bottles need to be stored to conform with the regulations, and the welders need to be aware of the safety rules - such as the use of the correct regulator, tethering the cylinder so that it does not fall, keeping the outlets free from contamination such as oil or grease.
WELDING IN DIFFICULT SITUATIONS – OUTDOORS, CONFINED SPACES ETC.
There are many work situations which add to the hazards of welding. Each must be assessed carefully, since there may be added hazards such as falls or asphyxiation. This is particularly true of work in confined spaces, where there is a very real risk of death, and the employer should make a critical assessment of the work to be done, and how it may be carried out safely.
www.awd.org.uk | J WeldingWorld1 EXTRACTION
FUME EXTRACTION INSTALLATIONS GAIN FROM WELDING REFURBISHMENT EXPERTISE AT WESTERMANS INTERNATIONAL
All operators of welding equipment will be well aware of the inevitable creation of gases and fumes as a result of the process. Clearly central to the commitment to optimise conditions both for welding operatives and the broader workshop environment, solutions to this key issue can range from personal protective equipment to built-in exhaust systems and, according to Westermans International Ltd., the latter – fixed installations – need not be cost prohibitive. “We have a well-established, international reputation for the supply of a vast range of refurbished welding equipment,” says Claire Spillane, Company Secretary at the organisation’s East Midlands head office and factory. “Our ability to source, regenerate, commission and provide support for facilities that range from MIG welding units to advanced orbital welders invariably enables our customers to gain from proven, highly advanced equipment very cost effectively.” The same advantages, she says, also extend to a long list of ancillary equipment, with fume extraction systems high on the list.
“Fumes and gases can arise not only from welding and cutting operations but also from processes such as abrasive blasting or from the application of substances that include lubricants, degreasing fluids and pickling pastes,” adds Technical Director, Mark Reaney.
“The fact that the process often takes place in a small, enclosed space can add to an issue that must be addressed with each installation.” Westermans International has built its leading reputation on both its ability to identify and source used systems, and also its belief in undertaking refurbishment operations to meet exact customer needs. The company typically retains in excess of 300 units for refurbishment at its Leicester premises, while also acting as a distributor of selected new equipment – such as that manufactured by Extractability – and can point to a customer list that covers a wide range of industries and geographical locations.
In all cases the organisation ensures that the equipment it supplies, including fume extraction systems, takes full account of appropriate health and safety obligations, such as those defined by COSHH. “We take the view that clean air
is effectively a human right and this principle should fully extend to the workplace,” continues Claire Spillane. “The list of potential health issues associated with welding activities is well- known so all measures that companies can take to offset these factors is both desirable and, in many cases, subject to regulatory and legal obligations. “Our supply of welding systems and ancillary equipment has helped a growing list of companies to benefit from technology that reflects the most appropriate and effective health and safety needs. From both a performance and cost perspective, we believe that all aspects of welding operations – not least fume extraction – can gain from our proven approach,” she concludes.
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