Environment, Health and Safety Execution Center India
SE-ECI-EHS-SOP-04
SAFE OPERATING PROCEDURE
Welding
User must read this important information before
using the equipment
UNDERSTANDING THE Welding Machine
POTENTIAL HAZARDS AND RISKS
■ Non-Ionization Radiation ■ Electricity
■ Eye injuries ■ Burns & Hot Spatters ■ Electric Shock
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENTS
Appropriate safety helmet must be worn at all
times in all sites.
Appropriate safety footwear must be worn at all
times in all sites.
Approved reflective jacket must be worn at all
times in all sites.
Approved face shield or welding goggles must be
worn when welding is carried.
Appropriate safety hand gloves must be worn
when welding is carried.
A mask must be worn when excessive airborne
metal fume is created.
Suitable welding apron must be worn all times
when welding is carried.
Cotton long sleeve shirt and long pant must be
worn.
Ring or Jewelry must not be worn. No loose
clothing.
PRE-OPERATIONAL SAFETY CHECKS
1. Check workspace to ensure no slip-trip hazards are present.
2. Examine the power lead and welding current return lead for obvious
damage.
3. Missing or defective insulation at the welding holder/torch.
Environment, Health and Safety Execution Center India
SAFE OPERATING PROCEDURE
Welding
PRE-OPERATIONAL SAFETY CHECKS
4. Defective connections at the electrode holder/torch or at the welding
current return clamp.
5. Cables and Plugs suitable for the intended use and performance.
Rated capacity of Welding Cables.Broken or thermally damaged plugs
and switches.
6. Metal frame and cases must be grounded to earth.
7. Ensure Welding machine is operated on ELCB/RCD operated circuit.
8. Power disconnection shall be routed thru MCB and must be provided
on the machine.
9. Before Welding, make sure that welding area is free of flammable and
combustible materials
OPERATIONAL SAFETY CHECKS
1. Carryout welding with proper work permit or job safety planning.
2. Connect to power source only after all adjustments have been made.
3. Check that the power lead does not create a trip hazard and that it is
well clear of the workpiece.
4. Insulate welder from workpiece and ground using dry insulation.
Rubber mat or dry wood.
5. Connect the welding ground as close as possible to area where
welding is being performed.
6. Welding shall be carried out in ventilated area or proper ventilation
arrangements shall be made before start welding.
7. Use welding shields to protect eye and face from radiation and
spatters. Guard eyes & face when chipping slag.
8. Use Welding screens to protect others from arc or glare.
9. The work clamp must be securely attached to the work before the start
of the welding operation.
10. Locate welding machines where they have adequate ventilation and
ventilation ports are not obstructed.
11. Do not operate the rotary switch for current settings while the machine
is operating under welding current load.
12. Disconnect the welding machines from the power supply when they
are left unattended.
13. A place will be provided to hang up or lay down the holder where it will
not come in contact with persons or conducting objects.
14. Partially used electrodes should be removed from the holders when
not in use.
15. Before making any machinery adjustments, bring the machine to
isolation by disconnecting from the power source.
16. Handle hot metal with pliers or tongs.
17. Do not allow the electrode to stick the metal. If this occurs, turn off the
welding, allow the electrode to cool, then break off with gloved hand.
18. Prevent burns by cooling hot metal promptly, storing when not in use,
and never touch the electrode or electrode holder to bare skin.
19. Keep the Fire extinguisher and water bucket handy.
HOUSEKEEPING (AND CLEANING UP)
1. Remove electrode stubs, chipped slag after welding.
2. Remove all materials and equipments from the welding area.
3. Clean the area and leave it in a safe & tidy condition.