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Precautions against electric shock
If the arc does not ignite, there may be an open circuit between the earthing clamp
and the contact tip. This can cause serious injury if the welder, torch, welding wire
or the work piece are touched with bare hands.
• When welding electrical equipment or machines ensure the workpiece is dis-
connected from the mains. Neglecting to do so can result in the welding current
damaging the machine:
For example: if the earthing cable is placed on the welder's housing, this will create a el-
ectrical connection between the welder and the workpiece. Only weld a workpiece with
an earth conductor connected. It is possible to weld a workpiece which has no earth con-
ductor attached. In this situation, the welding current bypasses the earth conductor and
runs through to the workpiece. The high welding current can cause the earth conductor
to melt.
• The mains circuit must be fused in accordance with statutory regulations. Only
circuit breakers meeting the necessary requirements may be used (16A circuit
breaker).
The fuses amperage rating must not be too high in order to prevent damage to the
electrical lines.
Cramped or warm rooms
• When working in confined or warm situations, non conductive protective equip-
ment such as welding gauntlets made from leather or other non conductive ma-
terial should be used to help insulate the user from contact with the ground, walls
or other conductive objects.
• When using a welding transformer in high electrical risk areas e.g. in smaller areas with
conductive items such as pressure vessels, pipes or in warm areas where you may
sweat through protective clothing, the open circuit voltage must not exceed 48V~. In
this situation the welder can be used with an open circuit voltage below 48V~
Dangers caused by lack of air in confined spaces
• Significant levels of smoke and gas can be produced while welding. Ensure there
is adequate ventilation in the work area so any smoke or gas produced can be extrac-
ted. Never blow air onto the welder. This may cause a risk of fire.
Protective clothing
• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment and a head shield made of heat
resistant material.
• Always wear insulated welding gauntlets on both hands while welding. The gaunt-
lets should be checked for signs of damage before use.
• A welder's apron can be worn to prevent damage to clothing. For welding in diffi-
cult positions e.g. overhead welding, a protective suit and appropriate protective head
wear should be worn.
• Any protective clothing or accessories used should conform to the 'Personal pro-
tective equipment' guidelines (89/686/EWG).
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