European Standard EN 169 gives
the recommended thresholds for
various arc welding and
connected techniques
SAFETY AGAINST NOISE
European Directive 2003/10/CE lays down the
minimum health and safety requirements in relation
to the exposure of workers as follows:
1. When the exposure to noise exceeds 80 dB(A),
the employer provides personal ear protection for
his workers;
2. When the exposure to noise reaches or exceeds
85 dB(A), workers use personal ear protection.
3. Noise exposure may not exceed 87 dB (A), taking
account of the use of personal ear protectors
The noise produced by a welding/cutting machine
mainly depends on the process, the current used
and the environment.
The off-load noise of BUILD WORKER
welding/cutting
generators is normally less than 70 dB (A). During
welding or cutting the noise level (sound pressure
level) of these generators can exceed 85 dB (A) at
the workstation.
The employer must take appropriate measures in
relation to the working conditions. If necessary the
employer provides the operator with suitable
personal ear protection (ear plugs, safety earmuffs,
etc) and installs appropriate warning signs in the
workplace.
Conf 92/58/EC BUILD WORKER offer a wide
range of personal protection equipment to suit your
needs.
FIRE SAFETY
Welding/cutting processes can cause
fires and explosions.
Before any Welding/Cutting operation, a preliminary
risk analysis should be carried out. To reduce fire
risks inflammable material should be removed from
the welding area whenever possible.
Whenever possible proceed as follows:
1. cover the inflammable material with incombustible
material for example, beams or planks in
combustible wood
2. keep the work environment under observation for
a sufficient period after the end of the
welding/cutting operation;
3. keep "hot points" and their immediate vicinity
under observation until their temperature falls to
normal;
4. have available fire extinguishing equipment
suitable for the equipment used and suitable for use
in electrical environments.
national regulations may require
a clearance for work
procedure prior to the
welding/cutting operation.
SAFETY WHEN USING GAS
RISKS
Unsatisfactory gas usage conditions expose the
user to two main dangers:
1. danger of asphyxiation and intoxication;
2. danger of fire or explosion.
These dangers are increased when working in
confined spaces.
GAS CYLINDERS
The gas supplier's safety instructions must be
followed, and in particular:
1. Storage and usage areas must have good
ventilation, be sufficiently far from the
welding/cutting area and other heat sources and be
secure from any technical incident.
2. The cylinders should be tied down.
3. Shocks should be avoided.
4. The temperature should not be excessive.
5. The cylinder should contain the gas necessary for
the process.
6. Taps must never be greased and should be
operated gently.