Figure 2. Welding masks and protective equipment

• Welding gloves and jackets: Heat-resistant gloves protect hands from sparks, while a long-sleeve that is fire-resistant protects, the arms and the torso from heat and light exposure. Ensure gloves and jackets can provide heat protection and cut resistance, although not a government-mandated standard, it is a benchmark all welders should aim to meet.
• Respiratory Protection: Welding fumes can contain hazardous and carcinogenic particulates, so a welding helmet with a respirator is the best choice. A powered air welding respirator gives the welder a minimum protection factor of 50 which is 5 times the level of protection offered by disposable half mask respirators. When using respirators, ensure the correct mask is chosen for the job. They should be low profile enough to fit comfortably under a helmet ensuring safety and clear vision.
• Ear protection: Processes like plasma arc welding produce noise levels from 85 decibels,  which is considered the hearing level threshold, but arc welding can produce noise levels from 98 to 112 dB which is class 3. Hearing protection such as earmuffs should comply with the AS/NZS 1270 standard for noise exposure to prevent hearing damage.

2. Preparing a safe welding environment

            A well-organized workspace significantly reduces accident risks in the workspace.   Ensure that it is clutter free of flammable, and electrical equipment. Ensure fire combat equipment such as fire extinguishers are nearby, and maintain air quality through technology such as fume extractors.

3. Health risks of welding and how to mitigate them.

• Ultraviolet and infrared radiation exposure. Radiation as such can cause permanent skin and eye damage. Proper PPE, like UV-filtering helmets and gloves plays a crucial role in minimizing these risks.
• Electromagnetic interference. Welders with pacemakers and other electronic medical devices should seek advice from medical professionals before welding as it could interfere with these devices.

welding safety