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SET-UP AND SAFE OPERATING PROCEDURES
89210004Safety Precautions
ARC RAYS, HOT SLAG, AND SPARKS CAN INJURE EYES AND BURN SKIN
Welding and cutting processes produce extreme localized heat and strong ultraviolet
rays. Never attempt to weld/cut without a federally compliant welding helmet with the
proper lens. A number 12 to 14 shade fi lter lens provides the best protection against
arc radiation. When in a confi ned area, prevent the refl ected arc rays from entering
around the helmet. Approved shielding curtains and appropriate goggles should be used
to provide protection to others in the surrounding area. Skin should be protected from arc rays, heat,
and molten metal. Always wear protective gloves and clothing. All pockets should be closed and cuffs
sewn shut. Leather aprons, sleeves, leggings, etc. should be worn for out-of-position welding and cutting,
or for heavy operations using large electrodes. Hightop work shoes provide adequate protection from
foot burns. For added protection, use leather spats. Flammable hair preparations should not be used
when welding/cutting. Wear ear plugs to protect ears from sparks. Where work permits, the operator
should be enclosed in an individual booth painted with a low refl ective material such as zinc oxide. See
safety and operating references 1, 2, and 3.
WELDING SPARKS CAN CAUSE FIRES AND EXPLOSIONS
Combustibles reached by the arc, fl ame, fl ying sparks, hot slag, and heated materials
can cause fi re and explosions. Remove combustibles from the work area and/or provide
a fi re watch. Avoid oily or greasy clothing as a spark may ignite them. Have a fi re
extinguisher nearby, and know how to use it. If welding/cutting is to be done on a metal
wall, partition, ceiling, or roof, precautions must be taken to prevent ignition of nearby
combustibles on the other side. Do not weld/cut containers that have held combustibles.
All hollow spaces, cavities, and containers should be vented prior to welding/cutting to permit the escape
of air or gases. Purging with inert gas is recommended. Never use oxygen in a welding torch. Use only
inert gases or inert gas mixes as required by the process. Use of combustible compressed gases can
cause explosions resulting in personal injury or death. Arcing against any compressed gas cylinder can
cause cylinder damage or explosion. See safety and operating references 1, 2, 5, 7, and 8.
NOISE CAN DAMAGE HEARING
Noise from the air carbon-arc process can damage your hearing. Wear protective hearing
devices to ensure protection when noise levels exceed OHSA standards. Adequate hearing
protection devices must be worn by operators and surrounding personnel to ensure
personal protection against noise. See safety and operating references 1, 2, and 6.
WARNING
This product contains chemicals, including lead, or otherwise produces chemicals
known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects and other reproductive
harm. Wash hands after handling.
(California Health & Safety Code § 25249.5 et seq.)