Welding is an important part of many industries today. It takes place in a number of, locations, and is used for a wide range of tasks. However, no matter if you are using number 6 AWG welding cable for typical welding applications or 350 MCM cable in a large industrial setting, safety is the most important consideration. Here are seven valuable tips for staying safe on the job and avoiding problems and injuries.
1. Always wear protective clothing – Maybe you only need to touch up a job or do something very simple. You should take the time to ensure you have no exposed skin. Make sure zippers are fully zipped and buttons are buttoned. Just one spark inside a pocket can start smoldering. Also, rolling up sleeves or pant legs is not a good idea because they could attract stray sparks.
2. Keep your work area clean. Just the slightest bit of clutter can cause an accident. It can also become an instant fire hazard. It only takes a few minutes to pick up materials. This will also help to ensure that nobody slips and falls.
3. When possible, invest in a self darkening welder’s helmet. Did you know that snapping a face guard in place many times a day can be hard on the neck? These kinds of repetitive stress injuries can be avoided when you use the right equipment. Helmets with auto darkening features can also save you a lot of time on the job.
4. Do not weld in wet areas. However, if you do need to weld in damp places, and it is important to check number 6 AWG welding cables and larger sizes, before you weld. Look for worn insulation, and replace your cables once they show signs or wear.
5. Check your surroundings before welding – Look around for any potential problems. Smell the air for fumes which could be a fire hazard. A simple habit like this can save you from serious injuries.
6. Invest in good welding gloves – Quality gloves are ergonomic. They make it easier to pick up items and do your job. This can prevent accidents by dropping things.
7. Inspect all equipment before starting – Take a few minutes to go over a simple checklist. Your list could look like this:
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Helmet – no cracks or wear
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Clothing – everything buttoned and secured, and nothing loose.
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Gloves – no holes or rips
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Work area – is it clean and in good order?
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#6 AWG welding cable – check for nicks, burned insulation, and cracks. Has the cable become stiff and lost flexibility?
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Electrodes – are they in good working order?
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Lighting – any bulbs burned out?
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Shock hazards?
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Water hazards?
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Unusual odors?
Electric Wire & Cable Specialists has been providing top quality cable for more than 20 years. We have sizes from number 6 AWG welding cable all the way to 350MCM, and products like security system and marine battery cable also. Check us out online at www.ewcswire.com for more details today.
