Electric welding
Electric welding – how it works and what risks it carries
The basis of electric welding is the use of an electric arc, the temperature of which usually ranges between 5000°C and 20000°C. Such a high temperature melts the metal at the welding point, which allows for a permanent connection of elements. In the plasma welding process, the temperature can locally reach 30000°C and more. There are many methods of electric welding. Using a coated electrode, shielded by inert or reactive gases, plasma welding. For the purposes of the Basic VCA course, we will divide welding processes into two parts – electric welding, and we will mean a coated electrode, and gas (or autogenous) welding using welding gases. This is not a course for welders, so we will not describe it all too precisely, but we will say here that in order to weld in the Netherlands, you must have the appropriate qualifications. Nevertheless, the risks associated with welding processes do not only concern the welder, which is why they are also included in this course.
Temperature hazards:
- Possibility of burns when in contact with hot parts and spatter.
- Risk of fire when flammable materials are nearby.
Spatter hazards:
- During welding, so-called welding sparks are created – small, hot particles of metal and slag that can cause burns or start a fire.
Chemical hazards:
During welding, welding smoke and gases are created, containing, among others:
- nitrogen oxides (NOx),
- ozone (O₃),
- carbon monoxide (CO),
- carbon dioxide (CO₂),
- heavy metal fumes (manganese, chromium, nickel, cadmium) – depending on the material.
Toxic compounds (dioxins, dibenzofurans) also pose a particular risk when welding dirty, painted or coated surfaces.
Radiation hazards:
An electric arc emits:
- visible light (risk of eye damage),
- ultraviolet (UV) radiation (can cause skin burns and eye damage),
- infrared (IR) radiation (dangerous especially during long-term work).
Electric shock hazard:
- Risk of electric shock due to improper operation of equipment, damaged insulation, moisture at the workplace.
How to protect yourself?
- Wear a welding mask (visor): Cover your entire face – protects against UV radiation and burns.
- Use a welding suit: Cover your entire body – protects your skin from UV radiation burns.
- Wear welding gloves: Thick, fire-resistant, protect your hands from temperature and radiation.
- Work shoes are a must: Protect your feet from splinters and heavy elements.
- Provide ventilation and exhaust fumes extraction: Especially in rooms, forges, welding shops, workshops. REMEMBER: Do not weld in any room that does not have an appropriate exhaust fume extraction!
- Use welding tents and curtains: They limit the spread of smoke and radiation.
- Have a powder extinguisher and a fire blanket on hand: A quick reaction allows you to put out the beginning of a fire.
How to protect your work environment?
REMEMBER: Your work endangers people in the immediate vicinity of your work station. Welding fumes, high temperature and radiation emissions harm not only you, but also the people around you!
- Mark the area: Clear markings informing about welding work.
- Use welding curtains: They protect bystanders from accidental exposure to the eyes.
