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Welding Safety

Over half of manmade products utilize some form of welding. It’s crucial in manufacturing, transportation, engineering and far more. Welders utilize dangerous equipment to cut or fuse metal parts. It’s a highly versatile, in-demand industry that requires finesse, an eye for detail and meticulous attention to safety standards.

Are Welding Jobs Dangerous?

Just like many other industrial occupations, being a welder comes with more inherent safety risks than your average desk job. Welders face several hazards on the job, including:

  • Electric shock
  • Gas and fume exposure
  • Fire and explosions
  • Physical injuries from stress and strain

However, professional welders also have many ways to mitigate these risks. Specialized safety gear, understanding the risks, and learning how to follow proper safety procedures help welders remain safe on the job.

Safety Procedures Welders Follow

In welding school, students learn the best safety procedures to minimize the risk of accidents or injuries. These safety guidelines have been established by national and organizations, and many companies implement their own standards to protect workers. Equipment manufacturers also have safety guidelines for their individual machines to help protect workers.

Common precautions include:

  • Use the right personal protective equipment (PPE)
  • Protection against fumes and gases with adequate workplace ventilation
  • Take precautions against electrocution
  • Routinely check equipment before every use
  • Keep workspaces clear and clutter-free
  • Take regular breaks to avoid repetitive stress injuries
  • Follow and enforce all safety procedures, even if reporting a fellow welder for violating guidelines
  • Completing ongoing training to stay up-to-date on best practices

Protective Gear Welders Use

Welders use a range of PPE to remain safe, such as:

  • Ear protection: Welding can get loud. If noise is expected to remain above 85 decibels for several hours, ear protection is necessary to protect hearing.
  • Electrical shock protection: Specialized insulated clothing safeguards welders from unintentional electrical shocks.
  • Eye and face protection: Safety glasses and face shields protect delicate skin and eyes from harmful sparks, intense light, molten metal and radiation.
  • Foot protection: Heat- and spark-resistant leather shoes protect the feet during work. Shoes should fit inside the pant leg for best protection.
  • Gloves: Heat-resistant gloves keep hands and wrists safe from burns and cuts.
  • Heat and radiation protection: Flame-resistant outerwear protects the body and limbs from high heat levels or burns.
  • Respiratory protection: Respirators and dust masks keep harmful particles and fumes out while breathing.

The Importance of Safety Training in Welding School

Becoming a professional welder doesn’t require spending years getting a degree, but it’s a specialized occupation with its own terminology, equipment, and safety concerns. Getting trained as a welder at a specialized welding school will give you the best chance for success in your career. Safety procedures and the correct use of safety equipment are an essential part of the training in any reputable welding school.

Enroll in the IMBC Welding Technology Program Today

Interested in entering the welding industry? Start training with the IMBC welding technology program. In less than a year, you develop foundational skills and techniques for a successful welding career while preparing for the SMAW and FCAW certifications. Reach out today to learn more about the program and enroll.