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To avoid electric shocks and possible electrocution , personnel should take the following precautions :
• Welders must always be aware about the possibility of electrical shock . Wet working conditions must be avoided because water is an excellent conductor and electricity will always follow the path of least resistance . Even a person ’ s perspiration can lower the body ’ s resistance to electrical shock . Standing on a dry rubber mat , or when welding outdoors , standing on a dry board is advisable .
• Poor connections and bare spots on cables further increase the possibility of electrical shock , so equipment operators should routinely inspect for effective earth connections . A proper earth connection is always necessary because it provides a safety connection from a welding machine to the earth .
• Connections typically used for earthing an engine-driven welding machine include a cable connected from an earth stud on the welding machine to an earth connection or a metal stake placed into the ground .
• The workpiece being welded and the frame or chassis of all electrically-powered machines must be connected to a good electrical earth . Chains , wire ropes , cranes hoists or lifts must never be used as earth connections .
• Work leads are not used as earth leads . A separate lead is required to earth the workpiece or power source .
• Never touch the electrode or any metal object unless the power source is off .
• When installing welding tables , connect the frames of each unit as such to the building earth . Conductors must be adequate to carry ground currents safely . Equipment made electrically hot by stray current may deliver a powerful shock .
• Never earth to an electrical conduit or to a pipe carrying any gas or flammable liquid such as oil or fuel .
• Train personnel using welding and cutting equipment to reduce the risk of injuries , fatalities , and electrical accidents .
• Read all instructions , labels and installation manuals before installing , operating or servicing the equipment .
• Do not strike the arc without covering the face and eyes . Give warning to others before striking the arc .
• Wear dry insulating gloves in good condition and protective clothing .
• Isolate / Insulate yourself from the workpiece and ground by wearing high top rubber soled shoes or standing on a dry insulated mat or platform .
• Use fully-insulated electrode holders . Never dip the holder into water to cool it .
• Do not touch holders connected to two welding machines at the same time .
• Do not allow the holder or electrode to come in contact with any other person .
• Do not use worn , damaged , undersized , or poorly joined cables .
• Make sure all connections are tight .
• Do not wrap cables carrying electric current around your body .
• Do not touch an energised electrode while you are in contact with the work circuit .
• In confined spaces or in locations that are electrically hazardous due to water or perspiration , utilise DC output machines and do not work alone .
• Turn off all equipment when not in use .
• Use only well-maintained equipment . Repair or replace damaged parts before further use .
• Welding can further cause other hazardous conditions such as fires . Always take extra precautions to prevent all accidents while welding . Simple preventive actions such as placing your welding cables and other equipment where they will not obstruct passageways , ladders , and stairways will help prevent accidents .
When it comes to extension cords :
• Never use an extension lead when rolled up and in particular when welding . There will be heat build-up which may result in the extension melting causing unsafe electrical conditions and posing a fire hazard .
• Keep extension cords away from heat , oil , chemicals , sharp edges and ensure they do not become a tripping hazard .
• Make sure the extension cord is for the correct amperage and has the proper plug .
• Don ’ t overload electrical outlets .
• Never disconnect power by pulling on the cord – disconnect at the plug !
Johann , I hope that this assists you with your electrical safety issues when welding and in general .
Thank you for all your questions . Send your problems ( and sometimes your creative solutions ) to acra @ netactive . co . za with ‘ Solutions Page ’ in the subject line . You may include pictures .
REFERENCES : 1 . ACRA RACA
Electric shock is a hazard associated with both electric resistance and electric arc welding .
www . hvacronline . co . za RACA Journal I February 2021 43