Safety

Before you start blazing away, it is necessary to go over welding safety.

Welding, cutting, and grinding can all be performed safely when proper procedures are followed. Remember:

Arc rays can burn!
PROTECT your eyes and face with a welding helmet at all times while welding.
PROTECT your body from welding spatter and arc flash with protective clothing, including long-sleeved shirts, pants, gloves, and work boots.
PROTECT your eyes with safety glasses and/or a clear plastic face shield, and your ears with noise-reducing headphones or earplugs, at all times while cutting and grinding.

Welding fumes are toxic. Be sure to have proper ventilation and protect yourself from breathing harmful fumes.
Welding sparks can cause fires. The work area should be free of all flammable materials, papers, rags, & clothing should be stored away from your welding area. Always have a fire extinguisher nearby as a precaution.
If you are using shielding gas, always keep the gas cylinder in an upright position and securely chained to a wall or welding cart. Always keep heat, sparks, and flames away from gas cylinders.
The electrode and work (or ground) circuits are electrically "hot" when the welder is on. Do not touch these "hot" parts with bare skin or wet clothing.
Keep your work area free from clutter
Always wear fire resistant clothing and keep your skin covered as you cut, grind, and weld
Always wear proper fitting clothing, and keep long hair tied back. Loose clothing and hair can quickly get caught in a grinder
Make sure your pantlegs cover the tops of your shoes/ boots to prevent sparks from entering your footwear
Protect your feet with leather boots/steel toe shoes
Always wear a welding helmet with the correct shade lens while welding
Hearing protection, safety glasses, and a face shield should be worn each time you cut or hammer metal
Always wear leather gloves to protect your hands and wrists as you weld and work with metal.
Protect yourself and others by following & sharing these safe working practices.