Working Environment

There are work situations which present increased hazards to the health and safety of the welding operator. These are:

1. confined spaces

2. hazardous locations

3. working on tanks and containers.

Confined spaces/hazardous locations：

Working in confined spaces usually entails difficult access and cramped conditions. The workplace is often poorly ventilated, and the welder is often completely surrounded by a conductor which forms part of the welding circuit. Under these circumstances the welding operator is at increased risk from:

1. a build-up of fumes

2. electric shock.

The possibility of a build-up of dangerous fumes whilst welding in a confined space must be allowed for and adequate ventilation be provided through:

1. exhaust fans

2. an additional supplementary air supply.

The possibility of an electric shock is greater because the operator can easily make contact with the job, and awkward and enclosed workplaces often lead to higher levels of perspiration. 

The operator should keep themselves as dry as possible and use the necessary protective clothing to prevent electrocution. Additionally:

1. an all-insulated electrode holder should be used

2. high-frequency attachments should not be used

3. portable electric lamps exceeding 32 V supply should not be used. Electronic leakage breakers (ELB) devices are acceptable.

Provision must be made, close to the work area, for the power to be switched off by an assistant when:

1. the welder is not prepared for welding

2. the electrode is being changed

3. the operator leaves the job.