Welding is an intricate process, and it requires skill, hard work, a steady hand, and a keen eye. All these things considered, welding wouldn’t be possible without the safety precautions that come along with it. From personal protective equipment to flame-resistant clothing, it’s not just the welder’s responsibility to possess the above qualities, but also to understand the importance of safety.
The first step to safety in this field is understanding what you put on your body. Learn more about what to wear when you’re welding below. Take the necessary precautions to achieve success and safety.
Various PPE for All-Over Safety
Of course, personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential for all welders—it’s a dangerous job, and that means various PPE must be worn at all times. To begin, think about the eyes and face. You’ll need a welding helmet, goggles, and even fire-resistant head coverings under the helmet. Sparks fly and arc flash are bound to occur; you’ll need the correct safety equipment to protect from all these occasions.
Here’s a quick list of other PPE you may want:
- Respirators to protect your lungs from fumes and oxides
- Earmuffs or earplugs to shield your ears from noise
- Hand shields to protect against sparks
- Leather aprons to protect your chest and lap from sparks
Fire and Flame-Resistant Clothing
PPE isn’t the only thing that protects you while welding—so do the clothing choices you make. Every welder should arrive on the job properly outfitted. This means wearing denim or heavy cotton work pants with no cuffs, as sparks and other combustible materials could get trapped within the cuff.
You also need to wear a long-sleeved shirt with a button-down collar for added protection. If the shirt has pockets, make sure you can button or tape them down. Work-weight, flame-resistant clothing will protect your skin from UV radiation and any other sparks. Welders should never wear short sleeves or shorts.
Looking Out for Feet & Hands
The last places you need to protect are the extremities. A welder’s shoe choice makes a big impact, not just on protection but on comfort as well. Shoes with rubber soles and safety toes help complete the overall protective look. You should also double-check that the shoelaces are made of rawhide and not a synthetic material.
When it comes to your hands, choose insulated, gauntlet-type leather gloves. Pair those with protective sleeves in a similar material to protect your wrists and forearms.
This is just a general list of what to wear when you’re welding. Make sure to double-check with your manager to see if they enforce any additional requirements. Shop at FR Outlet, and weld safely!