Welding Continuing Education

Welding is best defined as a merging process in which metals are heated, melted and mixed to produce a joint compound. The molten metal in the photograph above exhibits similar properties to those of the original materials prior to welding.

In order to weld metals or plastic together, you need the following three components. They are:

• A heat source – the heat source could be an electric arc, a flame or friction. An Electric arc is the most commonly used heat source by welders.
• Shielding – this is the use of gas or an insulating substance to protect the weld from the air. This ensures that the weld won’t be brittle and porous. This usually occurs when the weld is exposed to Oxygen from the atmosphere.
• Filler material – this is the material used to join to the two pieces together.

Welding Safety Video

This video provides an overview of health and safety factors associated with welding; it addresses risks from welding and cutting operations; and it describes oxy-fuel gas hazards and controls that can reduce their risk. Other welding hazards such as toxic fumes and gases, radiation, electrical circuits, flammable and combustible materials, and compressed gas cylinders are reviewed.

Video – Welding Safety [35:31]
This video presents the hazards associated with welding and cutting which include inhaling toxic gases or fumes, radiation exposure, live electrical circuits, and flammable or combustible materials. Source: OSHA

Welding hazards to avoid

Welders are exposed to both physical and chemical hazards. The techniques and tools they use to join materials put them at risk for a variety of risks. These conditions have the potential to endanger their health through injuries or diseases from inhaling air-borne chemicals and particles. The following are hazards welders are often exposed to.

Eye damage

The process of welding produces sparks and vapors. These two by-products pose physical and health problems to staff. As an employer, you are required by OSHA regulations to ensure your workers wear personal protective equipment and know how to use it. This PPE will limit the level of exposure your staff gets from harmful fumes and particulates. Personal protective equipment includes flame-resistant clothing and welding helmets that are designed to protect workers’ faces and eyes.

Fire hazards

Welding is a very dangerous process. When the filler material is joining the two compounds, sparks are often produced. These sparks represent fire hazards that put both your workers and facility in danger of catching fire. It is important to note that those employees that deal with grease or oil should stay away from welding as the two substances are flammable.

Electrical shock

An unwanted risk when dealing with wielding is the possibility of electrical shock. It may harm or injure your employees. In extreme cases electrical shock is fatal. Insulation is key to avoiding electrical shock. It is always important to wear protective equipment before starting any welding activities.

Continuing Education Courses on Welding

If Welding Safety is of interest to you, consider our continuing education courses that address this subject directly.

HS-02-301 Welding Safety – 3 PDH
This course provides information about the risks and hazards associated with welding and includes best practices to avoid injury to workers. It addresses the hazards of working with compressed gases and cylinders, provides procedures for storing and transporting cylinders, and describes inspection and labeling requirements.

HS-02-301W Live Webinar: Welding Safety – 3 PDH
This live webinar course provides information about the risks and hazards associated with welding and includes best practices to avoid injury to workers. It addresses the hazards of working with compressed gases and cylinders, provides procedures for storing and transporting cylinders, and describes inspection and labeling requirements.