TIG Fire Safety

There are many safety precautions to consider when welding.

If you are welding in the Pier 9 Workshop, the fire code requires a fire watch policy.

• After welding, users must return the welding area twice to check for signs of fire.
  • Return to the area 30 minutes after welding.
  • Return again, 30 minutes later.

This policy is wise to follow in all welding studios, be sure that there are no flammable materials within your slag-zone.

Step 1: Protecting Yourself

REQUIRED WELDING SPECIFIC SAFETY GEAR

• Long sleeves and pants - natural fibers or leather
• Leather shoes
• Long gauntlet leather gloves
• Welding hood - shade #11 or darker

ULTRA VIOLET (UV) LIGHT EXPOSURE

UV exposure will cause painful burns, similar to a sunburn.

• Cover all skin from arc flash, at all times.
• A full welding hood, at least #11 or darker, must be worn at all times.
• All people in the welding area must wear all protective gear.
• Fully surround the area with welding screens at all times.

Step 2: Welding Coated Metal

Metal with coatings like paint or powdercoat can emit harmful gases when heated.

• Grind off all coatings before welding.
• Use the fume extractor when grinding and when welding.
• Never wear gloves when grinding.
• Grinding or welding of galvanized material is not allowed.