Despite the stereotype that we’re pretty grubby guys, welders pay a lot of attention to our clothes. We’re probably some of the only people who still starch our clothes in the 21^st century. Starching is the process of adding starch to clothing to repel dirt and wrinkles.

Welders starch their clothes because of the unique properties of fire-resistant welding clothes. Starching helps repel dirt and makes clothing more resistant to wear and tear. It also helps expensive welding clothes last longer.

Being a welder doesn’t require just thinking about machinery—you must also think about your clothes. Here is what you need to know about starching your clothes as a welder.

Why Do Welders Starch Their Clothes?

There are a few reasons why welders starch their clothes.

1. Starching Makes Clothing More Resistant to Dirt

People used to starch their clothes in the days before washing machines, when doing laundry was a much bigger chore than it is now, because starching makes clothing more resistant to dirt. The starch creates an extra layer of protection that acts as a barrier in front of the fabric. Welding is very dirty, with lots of soot, ash, and debris flying around. Starch makes it less likely for the dirt to stick and easier to clean up any mess that does happen.

2. Starching Clothing Makes It More Fire-Resistant

Another reason starching was popular back in the day is that in the times of candlelight, clothing catching on fire was a much bigger problem than it is now. Guess who has to worry about clothing catching on fire today? That’s right, welders.

Starching creates a stiff outer layer of protection that is naturally flame resistant. While it won’t make a regular shirt magically resistant to a whole blaze, it can prevent sparks and hot slag from burning through your shirt and burning your skin. Even if your welding uniform is already fire-resistant, starching can add an extra layer of protection.

3. Starching Makes Welding Clothing Last Longer

Welding clothing that will protect you from heat, fire, and debris can get expensive. Ideally, you want your clothing to last for a long time, so you don’t need to pay through the nose to replace your pants in just a few months. 

Starching your welding clothes helps them last longer because you make the clothing more resistant to burns, stains, and other damage that could shorten its lifespan. Starching ultimately saves you money.

Which Welding Clothes Need to Be Starched?

You need to starch if you have 100% denim or cotton welding clothes. Starching garments made out of natural fibers will create an extra protective layer. 

While you don’t need to starch fire-resistant clothing because it is already protected thanks to the manufacturer coating, you can use starch if it makes you feel better to have an extra layer of protection.

You can’t starch most synthetic fabrics, such as polyester, because the starch doesn’t stick to those fibers.

How to Starch Welding Clothes

Here is a step-by-step guide to starching your welding clothes.

1. Gather Your Supplies

You will need a spray bottle; starch, such as Sta-Flo; hangers with swivel heads, and a press. 

2. Set Up Your Starching Area

Hang your clothes on the hangers. Ensure you’re in an area where you can clean up easily, such as a tub or outside. 

Put the starch in the spray bottle. Prime the spray bottle with a few pumps so it’s ready to go.

3. Spray the Clothes with Your Starch

Take your spray bottle and spray your clothing with the starch, making sure to cover every bit. Turn the handle around so you get the front and back of your clothes.

Let your clothes dry overnight.

4. Press Your Starched Clothes

Pressing seals the starched layer. Once your clothes are dry, use your steam press to create the crease. You can use a hand iron, but it will take much longer.

What Other Protective Equipment Is Required When Welding?

Starching your welding clothes gives you an additional layer of protection; however, starching alone is not enough protection during welding. You need plenty of other protective equipment, such as:

• Safety glasses
• A welding helmet
• Sturdy boots
• Heavy-duty gloves
• Earplugs

My complete guide to the protective equipment you should have before starting out.

Final Thoughts

Many welders starch their clothes, not because they care about their appearance while welding but because it is practical. Starching helps welding clothes last longer because it makes them more resistant to dirt, sparks, and other job hazards. Starching is also relatively easy at home and a great way to upgrade cotton or denim clothing.

The post Why Do Welders Starch Their Clothes? appeared first on Beginner Welding Guide.

As a result, welders do have a shorter life expectancy than people who work desk jobs. However, that doesn’t mean picking up a welding gun is automatically a death sentence. You can reduce the effect welding has on your life expectancy by taking safety precautions and staying mindful of the very real dangers associated with welding.

Here is your guide to the effect welding might have on your life expectancy. This isn’t an order to change your career or hobby, but it is important to go into welding clear-eyed about the risks of the profession.

Does Welding Shorten Your Life?

While professional welders are in high demand and some of the best-paid blue-collar workers out there, there are some dark sides to the profession. One reason why welders are in such high demand is that there is a shortage of people willing to do this dirty job. 

Welders have life expectancies of about 50 years, which is much shorter than the US average of about 78 years. Most people look at that statistic and decide no high salary or prestigious job is worth potentially losing decades of their lives.

So why is the life expectancy so much shorter for welders than for members of the general population? There are a few reasons. First, welders are more prone to dangerous accidents. Certain types of welding, such as underwater welding, are more dangerous because accidents are more likely. Welding also shortens people’s life expectancies due to the long-term health problems caused by welding (more on those later).

However, it’s important to remember that life expectancy is an average. That means welders, on average, live for about 50–60 years, not that all welders are doomed to never live to retirement. While the risk of an accident or severe long-term health consequences is higher for welders than for the general populace, it is not guaranteed. You can also lessen your risk of death by taking the right safety precautions or choosing a safer industry within the wider welding field, such as linework.

Common Welding Accidents

One reason why welders have shorter life expectancies is the prevalence of potentially deadly accidents on welding sites. Here are some accidents common among welders. Over 500,000 welders get into accidents on the job every year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

1. Electric Shocks

Professional welders use electrical welding machines that create an electric arc. Welders who touch the arc or any material that conducts electricity, such as metal, and which was in contact with the arc will experience an electric shock. Electric shocks cause short-term injuries such as burns and pain but can even lead to long-term damage.

2. Heat Burns

Besides electricity, welding involves a lot of heat. Coming in contact with the arc, molten metal, or even a project that hasn’t cooled properly can cause burns. Larger burns are difficult to treat and can cause lifelong disfigurement and even death.

3. Welding Flash

Another common source of accidents, including sometimes fatal ones, is welding flash. The brightness of the welding arc is not designed for human eyes, so looking at it without the right protection can cause ocular damage, including blindness.

4. Common Welding Injuries

Even in cases when these accidents don’t cause fatalities, they will cause injuries. Welders, even the most careful ones, experience many injuries throughout their careers. These injuries add up, causing lasting health consequences and even premature deaths.

Burns are some of the most common welding injuries, from heat burns to arc flash burns to electrical burns. They range from mild to third-degree burns. Their impact depends on the burn’s severity, size, and placement on the body.

Eye injuries are also very common due to the brightness of the welding arc. Ocular and auditory damage is also very common, with long-term consequences for welders. 

Cuts and other skin injuries are common when welding. Besides working with high-powered equipment that can cut metal with heat, let alone skin, welders also work with saws, drills, and other heavy equipment that can cause these injuries.

Finally, injuries that result from fume inhalation are very common. Nausea, shortness of breath, and even metal fume fever are common illnesses that happen when someone is exposed to welding fumes for a long time.

Long-Term Problems

The danger in welding doesn’t come just from rare but deadly accidents. A lifetime of welding leads to many long-term problems.

General Exposure

Welders that are lucky to avoid deadly accidents such as electrocutions and falls are still exposed to dangerous substances. Welders inhale deadly fumes as they work, which stay in their bodies and accumulate after decades on the job. They are also exposed to bright lights, lots of noise, and other hazardous working conditions that cause health problems in retirement (for welders lucky enough to make it to retirement).

Deafness

Many people are aware of the damage to their eyes during welding, but few welders starting out will think about their ears. However, welding machines are very loud, and exposure to such high decibels leads to deafness.

COPD

Welders inhale toxic fumes that include dangerous substances such as 

• Chromium
• Nickel 
• Carbon monoxide
• Carbon dioxide

Long-term exposure to these gases and elements causes respiratory problems such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or COPD. COPD is the name for a group of respiratory diseases that block regular airflow, making it difficult to breathe unassisted.

Cancer

Cancer is one of the deadliest consequences of long-term exposure to toxic fumes through welding. Elements such as chromium and nickel enter into the alveoli in your lungs, poisoning the cells and causing lung cancer to develop. Welders are also at higher risk of other respiratory system cancers, such as throat cancer. Welders have many of the same health risks as smokers as they are exposed to similarly toxic chemicals.

What Are the Most Dangerous Types of Welding?

If you want to have a welding career but are worried about your health, you may want to avoid these branches of the industry.

Underwater Welding

Underwater welding requires exposure to many of the same dangers as welding on dry land, such as burns, toxic fumes, and electric shock. However, the risk of electrocution increases because water is a very effective electricity conductor. Underwater welders are at risk of drowning if equipment fails or an accident happens. Underwater welders may have some of the highest paychecks in the industry, but they also have the highest fatality rates.

Rig Welding

Rig welders, who work on oil and gas rigs, also have one of the most dangerous jobs out there. They often have to work underwater, exposing them to the risks of underwater welding. Plus, if they make a mistake, the whole rig could explode, killing everyone on it.

Final Thoughts

Welding is a rewarding career and hobby, but it is also a dangerous one. Welders have a lower life expectancy than most other professions and a much higher rate of accidents and long-term workplace-related health problems. Consider the risks before starting this career.

The post Does Welding Shorten Your Life? appeared first on Beginner Welding Guide.

So, what happens when someone doesn’t take welding safety precautions? In that case, how long does welders’ flash last?

Continue reading this article to learn about welders’ flash and how long it lasts. I’ll also walk you through the common symptoms and treatments. Plus, I’ll discuss some preventive measures to protect yourself from a welder’s flash. Let’s get right into it!

What Is Welders Flash?

Welder’s flash, or photokeratitis, is like a sunburn but for the eyes. It happens when you directly look at ultraviolet (UV) light. 

Typically, the bright light causes inflammation in the front of the eyes, especially the cornea. The light can occasionally cause superficial burning to the mucous membranes that line the eyelids. 

It’s natural that the cornea—the transparent structure covering the colored part of the eyes—gets the most damage from UV light. 

That’s because the cornea acts as a windshield for the eyes. It’s responsible for protecting the inner structures of the eyes. Plus, it focuses the entered light on the retina to produce vision.

Why Does UV Light Cause Welders Flash?

For those who don’t know, radiation can have different wavelengths. As a result, scientists classified light into seven types according to length. 

These radiations are radio waves, microwaves, infrared light, visible light, ultraviolet, X-rays, and gamma rays—starting from the longest wavelength to the shortest. 

The shorter the wavelength, the higher the light’s energy. And as you can see, the UV wavelength is shorter than visible light. 

So, it’s no surprise that it has a higher penetration power than visible light. Consequently, UV can cause tissue damage.

What Causes UV Light Radiation When Welding?

As you weld, metals get hot due to their thermal conductivity. That heat causes the electrons to jump to a higher energy level. However, that pump is only temporary. Soon, the electrons lose that energy in the form of radiation and return to their original place.

The hotter the metal, the shorter the wavelength it emits. As a result, the welding flames change from red to blue or violet the longer you weld. 

Now, it’s no surprise that welding reaches high enough temperatures to cause significant UV light emissions. The problem is that we can’t see UV light to avoid it. That’s why the flash you’re used to seeing in welding can suddenly cause eye irritation.

However, it’s not just welding that damages the eyes. Any source of UV light can cause corneal discomfort. These include the sun, bright lamps, lightning, plasma cutters, and cutting torches.

That’s why photokeratitis has many common names, including:

• Arc-eye
• Arc flash
• Flash burns
• UV burns
• Snow blindness
• Welder’s eyes

How Long Does Welders Flash Last?

While arc-eye can last as little as one day, it can cause complications like keratoconjunctivitis. Such eye problems can take a couple of weeks to treat. Usually, not wearing proper protective gear increases flash burn symptoms’ severity.

That said, several factors can determine how long a welder’s flash lasts, including:

• The welding method
• The type of base metals used in welding
• The angle of UV emission

Let’s discuss each factor in detail.

The Welding Method

Not all welding processes produce the same amount of UV radiation. That depends on how hot the welding arc gets and its energy. 

Generally, MIG, TIG, and Stick welding produce high levels of UV light. The amount of UV emitted increases as you amp up the electric current. That makes sense since these types of arc welding reach high temperatures. 

Submerged and oxy-acetylene welding can produce minimal UV. So, they aren’t a concern compared to arc welding. As for resistance and friction welding, they don’t emit UV light.

The Type of Base Metal and Filler

The type of welded metal also affects the amount of UV emitted. Welding stainless steel, aluminum, and cast iron produce intense UV light. Not to mention, these metals are among the most common materials used in many industries.

Aside from the welded metal, filler components affect the harmful effects of UV radiation. For instance, rods with higher iron content, like E4916, give off more harmful UV radiation than those with nickel or chromium.

Magnesium-containing materials can produce hazardous UV radiation when welded with aluminum.

If you’re unfamiliar with what the E4916 electrode is and what the naming means, I think my article on the types of welding electrodes would be handy for you.

The Angle of UV Emission

Objects emit light in all directions. Interestingly, the direction in which you position your head while welding can impact the hazard of UV light. 

For example, receiving UV emissions at a 40-degree angle from the arc can be more harmful than at other angles. As a result, your eyes might get more damaged, causing longer welders’ flash symptoms.

Symptoms

You can experience arc-eye symptoms between 30 minutes and 12 hours after UV exposure. The length of UV exposure determines how quickly a welder’s eyes develop. Likewise, the longer you stay in UV light, the more troubling your symptoms might get.

Common signs of photokeratitis include:

• Eye pain and burning
• Redness and bloodshot eyes
• Excessive tearing
• Swelling
• Sensitivity to light
• Blurry vision and seeing halos
• Gritty eyes

On rare occasions, some people might experience temporary vision loss and a change in vision colors. You may also get bacterial and viral infections if the flash burn results in eye scratches.

Treatments

If you’re experiencing welder’s eyes, I’ve gathered a few steps you can do to help alleviate your symptoms:

1. Go to a dark room.
2. Wash your hands before removing contact lenses (in case you wear them).
3. Keep your damaged eye closed to prevent bacteria and viruses from contaminating it.
4. Place a clean gauze pad in cold water and put it on your eyes until it warms.
5. Repeat the above process until the eye discomfort fades away.

That said, you should seek medical attention as fast as possible. Your eye doctor will examine your eyes to determine the extent of damage and prescribe adequate treatment. 

These include:

• Dilating eye drops to relax eye muscles
• Antibiotic drops or ointments to prevent bacterial infections
• Painkillers 
• Steroid drops to ease inflammation
• Eye patches to shield your eyes from bright light

Prevention

Welding prevention measures are vital to preventing welder’s eyes and other UV-related eye diseases.

Here are a few tips to help you prevent arc-eye:

• Wear protective gear like safety goggles and a welding helmet.
• Make sure the safety goggles have a shade number between 8 and 13.
• Use shade number 14 eye protection for carbon and hydrogen arc welding. Likewise, wear shade 14 glasses when using shielded metal arc welding for thick metals.
• Wear sunglasses outdoors whenever there’s bright light.

Conclusion

So, how long does welders’ flash last?

Typically, welders’ flash can fade within 1-4 days. However, your eyes can take weeks to heal from flash burn complications like keratoconjunctivitis. That’s especially true if you’ve been exposed to UV light for a long time.

Aside from exposure time, the type of welding process and the base and filler metals can affect the hazard of UV radiation. Plus, arc-eye risk depends on the UV emission angle when entering the eye. The former factors also determine how fast you develop flash burn symptoms.

Whether you’ve experienced a welder’s flash or not, always wear safety goggles and a welding helmet. That way, you can protect yourself from that eye-burning issue.

The post How Long Does Welders Flash Last? appeared first on Beginner Welding Guide.

The arc temperature varies depending on the metal type, welding mechanism, and gas used. The output voltage, current, and the arc’s length can also impact how hot the welding arc gets.

In this article, I’ll discuss how a welding arc operates and the temperature range of different types of welding. I’ll also guide you through six welding safety precaution tips.

Temperatures of Different Types of Welding

There are two types of arc welding: consumable (fusible) and non-consumable (non-fusible) arc welding. The former uses a rod that melts to become part of the weld, while the latter doesn’t.

Shielded metal, gas metal, and flux-cored are all examples of fusible arc welding. Conversely, gas tungsten arc welding and plasma arc welding belong to the non-fusible category. 

Let’s discuss the temperature range of each welding type and its uses in detail.

Shielded Metal Arc Welding (Stick)

Most shielded metal arc welding rods can reach a temperature of 11,000ºF. That impressive thermal energy makes SMAW one of the most common types of arc welding. Plus, you can do SMAW indoors or outdoors!

You can use it to weld 1/8-inch-thick metals. Still, this non-consumable welding type can work for thicker rods.

Examples of common metals SMAW can weld include:

• Carbon steel
• Low-alloy steels
• High-alloy steels
• Cast iron
• Nickel alloys

Gas Metal Arc Welding (MIG)

Gas metal arc welding typically reaches a temperature of 3,000ºF. 

As the name implies, this arc welding type uses gas to protect the melted metal from atmospheric contamination. On that note, the gas used separates GMAW into two types, metal inert gas (MIG) and metal active gas (MAG). 

Both types of arc welds are common for indoor welding activities. That’s because outside air can blow the protective gas away. As a result, the welding process might not be successful.

You can use MIG and MAG for rod thicknesses between 1/8 and 3/4 inches.

That said, avoid using MAG welding for light steels and alloy metals—but why? This type of arc welding uses active gases like carbon dioxide. Once heated to 1300ºF or higher, carbon dioxide gas splits into carbon monoxide and oxygen.

As a result, the released oxygen can partially oxidize the iron alloys, causing rust.

Common areas that use GMAW include:

• Pipe joint welding
• Indoor construction
• Automotives 
• Railroad tracks

Flux-Cored Arc Welding (FCAW)

In general, flux-cored arc welding can have a temperature of 6,500ºF. The arc can even reach high temperatures up to 10,000ºF. A perk that makes it work well for numerous metals, like cast iron, carbon steel, and stainless steel.

Because FCAW usually doesn’t use gas shielding, it’s ideal for outdoor welding. It can even weld contaminated and dirty materials!

What’s more, this flux-filled welding arc works well on thick metal joints! However, it’s not your best option for materials with a thickness of less than 20 gauge. 

Industries that commonly use FCAW include construction and shipbuilding.

Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (TIG)

Gas tungsten arc welding, or TIG welding, uses a non-consumable metal arc. So, you’ll need to use a filler rod with TIG welding. 

TIG welding can reach a temperature of 6,000ºF thanks to tungsten’s high melting point, which is about 6,191ºF. 

Unlike other welding types, GTAW requires precision skills. That’s because the entire welding process is manual. You’ll need to ensure the tungsten doesn’t touch the welding pool or overheat it. Plus, you have to feed the filler rod into the joint yourself.

How is the Heat Produced?

Most welding arcs operate through a power supply, an electrode, and a shielding component.

The power supply uses electricity from direct or alternative currents to generate heat. As a result, the metal electrode at the tip of a welding gun becomes hot. The metal electrode reaches high enough temperatures to melt the welded rod.

Alternatively, some welding arcs melt, so you don’t have to worry about using external rods.

As mentioned earlier, a barrier component, like active or inert gasses, is vital to protecting the welding area from atmospheric air. Instead of gas, some welding arcs use flux. 

Protecting Yourself from the Heat

Here are a few tips to protect yourself from welding heat:

1. Always wear protective gear, like a flame-proof helmet, face shield, protective goggles, a heat-resistant jacket, welding gloves, and boots.
2. Work in well-ventilated areas, especially when working with hazardous metals.
3. Only work on concrete floors or other flame-resistant materials to prevent fires. Plus, keep an extinguisher nearby.
4. Double-check that you’ve installed the welding machine properly.
5. Make sure your electrical system meets the electricity requirements of the welding machine.
6. Always use an insulating mat when welding conductive metals to prevent electric shock.

Conclusion

So, how hot is a welding arc?

The temperature an arc reaches depends on the type of arc welding used. Gas metal arc welding has the lowest temperature of 3,000ºF. Other consumable welding arcs like flux-cored and shielded metal can reach high temperatures up to 10,000ºF and 11,000ºF, respectively.

Non-consumable welding arcs like gas tungsten have a temperature of 6,000ºF, while plasma arc reaches a whopping 50,000ºF.

Whichever welding arc type you use, make sure to wear protective equipment. Plus, always work in well-ventilated, fire- and electrical-safe areas to prevent potentially hazardous situations.

The post How Hot is a Welding Arc? [MIG + TIG + Stick] appeared first on Beginner Welding Guide.

The hazards of being a welder include the risk of being exposed to both seen and unseen rays. It’s imperative to familiarize yourself with these welding hazards as a safety precaution.

How Bright Is a Welding Arc?

A small 90 amperes welding machine needs at least 3000 watts of power to run, and it’s more than capable of producing an extreme amount of visible light.

For reference, your LED light bulbs can produce around 2600 lumens at 27 watts. This lumen estimate gets brighter with higher wattage.

We can safely assume that your average welding arc can produce visible light many times more intense than your brightest LED bulbs.

UV Radiation

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a type of electromagnetic radiation (EM) energy.

When you heat a matter to an incandescent level, it emits high-frequency energy. The wavelength of ultraviolet light is less than that of visible light. That’s why the human eye cannot detect it. You can only see this emission with specialized equipment.

Your welding arc emits visible light, infrared, and ultraviolet radiation. This happens when the electrode makes contact with the workpiece and creates an electric arc.

Which UV Rays Are Harmful to a Welder?

The welding arc emits the entire ultraviolet spectrum.

You can classify the UV rays produced by your soldering arcs into UVA, UVB, and UVC rays.

UVA (ultraviolet A) has the least amount of energy of the three. This ray has the ability to penetrate the dermis or the middle layer of your skin. It’s also linked to skin aging.

UVB has slightly more energy than UVA. It can reach the outer layer of your skin. Research has linked this UV to sunburns and cataracts.

Long-term exposure to both UVB and UVA rays can increase the risk of cell and genetic defects, such as cancer.

UVC rays are the most potent among the three types of UV. If you directly expose yourself to this radiation, it can cause burning on the skin and eye problems, like welders flash.

What Is Welder’s Flash?

Welder’s flash is the swelling of your eye’s cornea caused by extended and close exposure to ultraviolet radiation. 

It happens when you fail to properly protect your eyes from penetrating light from your arc. This condition is very common in welders and lasts 1 to 2 days.

They also call welder’s flash by several other names. You might hear people saying flash burn, arc-eye, snow blindness, UV burn, or photokeratitis.

Here are the typical symptoms to watch out for:

• Headache
• Sensitivity to light
• Bloodshot eyes
• Sensation of having “sand” in your eyes
• Mild to moderate eye pain
• Eye-watering
• Blurry Vision
• Inability to open your eyes

You can prevent developing a welder’s flash by wearing appropriate eye protection while welding.

Some professional welding industries even require welding screens and curtains to protect onlookers and passersby.

If you did contract welder’s eye, there are things you can do to cure or at least alleviate its symptoms.

Eye drops

You can try using non-steroidal anti-inflammatory eye drops to reduce the swelling of your eyes. Some physicians might also prescribe eye dilating drops to relieve and soothe eye irritation.

Rosewater

Rosewater contains antibacterial properties and is effective for eye conditions. It would help lubricate your eyes to boost the healing process.

Drip a few drops of rose water using a spoon or a cotton ball into the affected eye. Apply it twice a day for a few days until it heals.

Keep in mind that the rosewater remedy doesn’t eliminate the need for medicated drops.

Cucumber

You can also use your cucumbers as a remedy to alleviate your eye’s inflammation caused by the welder’s flash.

Take your cucumber and cool it inside your refrigerator for a few minutes. After cooling, take two moderately thin slices of the cucumber and place them over your eyes for a while.

This method will mostly soothe the area around the eyes. You might still need medicated drops.

Protect Yourself From UV Radiation

I know gearing up before starting the welding machine can be tedious, especially for smaller projects.

It’s still necessary if you’re a regular welder. This is to prevent the health risks that come with arc welding, like eye diseases and skin cancer.

Here are the items you must wear every time you weld:

Always Wear Your Welding Goggles

Your welding goggles are specifically designed to reduce the glare of the welding arc.

This means that the amount of ultraviolet and infrared light that reaches your eyes will significantly decrease.

Put On Your Welding Helmet

Welding helmets or welding hoods are made to protect both your eyes and your skin from the harmful effects of arc radiation.

They can cover a larger area than the goggles but can be uncomfortable for some welders.

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Wear a Welders’ Jacket and Apron

Welding aprons and jackets shield your body from burning caused by direct contact with heated metals or flying sparks.

It will also reduce the area of your skin exposed to UV radiation.

I personally prefer a welding jacket like this one by Lincoln Electric. It is designed especially for high-amperage welding and out-of-position welding. It has a two-part armpit design that actually allows you to move your arms which is much more comfortable than the old-fashioned leather jackets.

Apply Sunscreen Before Welding

Sunscreens protect your skin from sunburns and tanning from constant welding heat.

They are also well-known for their ability to deflect harmful UV rays that may penetrate your skin. This can minimize the possibility of developing skin diseases in the long term.

Make sure to put it 15-20 minutes before you start welding.

Conclusion

Learning the brightness of a welding arc is just the tip of the iceberg. Welders are already aware that arcs can generate powerful light fluxes.

Your welding machine also releases ultraviolet and infrared light as it creates the arc. Long-term exposure to the high levels of UV radiation generated by welding can cause welder’s flash and skin burns. It also puts you at risk of skin cancer.

Remember that proper protective welding gear consists of goggles, helmets, and aprons.

The post How Bright Is a Welding Arc? appeared first on Beginner Welding Guide.

Whether you weld as a hobby or professionally, it comes with risks. Since welding flames and arcs emit visible, infrared, and ultraviolet radiation, they’ll burn unprotected skin and eyes, just like when you go under the sun without sunscreen.

As a welder, safety is one of my top priorities. However, welding sunburns is an occupational hazard, with the correct information, you can reduce or even eliminate the risk.

Here’s how you can know if you have welding sunburn, how to treat it, and the safety equipment you need to prevent it.

Symptoms of Welding Sunburn

If you’ve been welding for quite some time, you might have noticed some symptoms already. If you’re unsure if they’re caused by welding sunburn, I’ve listed them below:

• Pain, from mild pressure or even concentrated burning sensation
• Light sensitivity
• Tearing and bloodshot eyes
• Blurred vision
• Skin burns
• Photophobia or the inability to look at light sources

Most of these symptoms are an indication of Arc Eye. Welding sunburns typically affect your eyes as they’re the most vulnerable when welding. Skin burns are also common occurrences.

Please note that intense and repeated exposure to ultraviolet radiation while welding could also cause skin cancer.

How to Treat Welding Sunburn

Welding sunburn lasts depending on the degree of the burn. For first-degree burns, it could take three to five days. Third-degree burns can take up to ten days to heal. 

You can also try these treatments to speed up the healing process:

1. Keep the burn moisturized. Treating welding sunburn is the same as treating sunburn from the natural sun. It’s best to use aloe-based lotion to apply to the burnt area.
2. Stay hydrated. Taking in a lot of fluids would also help keep the burn moisturized.
3. Apply cold water. Cool it under cold running water for at least 20 minutes for skin burns. This will reduce the pain, swelling, and risk of scarring.
4. Avoid direct exposure to sunlight. Covering the burnt area when going outside would reduce the risk of a more severe burn.
5. Allow the burn to heal. Don’t scratch, pick, or peel the burnt skin. It’ll slow down the healing process.

It usually takes two to three days to get better for arc eye or any eye discomfort. It’s best to see your doctor if it isn’t better after three days.

You also can try these treatments if necessary:

1. Take a pain reliever. Lessen the burning sensation and pain in your eye by taking some medication.
2. Use eye drops. Using eye drops and lubricants will hydrate your eyes and reduce discomfort.
3. Wear sunglasses. When you go outside, protect your eyes from the UV lights emitted by the sun. If you’re experiencing light sensitivity, wear sunglasses even indoors.
4. Do not wear contact lenses. Avoid irritating your eyes further by using contact lenses. 

Safety Equipment to Prevent Welding Sunburn

As they say, prevention is better than cure. So I’ll list some equipment you would need to prevent welding sunburns.

Safety Glasses

The greatest tool in welding is your eyesight. Since arcs of flames are hazardous to your eyesight when welding, protecting your eyes is always a must.

Any spatter from the welding arc, welding arc rays, and even flying metal from a grinder is dangerous to your eyes when unprotected.

I recommend wearing clear safety glasses near welding and cutting areas. If you’re cutting with a torch or gas welding, it’s best to use specially shaded goggles.

Use a #3 shade lens if you’re cutting with a torch, and #5 lenses when you’re brazing.

Welding Helmet

The most common piece of PPE when welding is a welding helmet. There are two main categories for welding helmets: auto-darkening and fixed shade. 

As the name implies, a fixed welding helmet typically has a fixed shade #10 . Auto-darkening welding helmets’ shade can be adjusted with a simple turn of a knob depending on what you need.

Best Overall

Lincoln Electric Viking Auto Darkening Welding Helmet

• Large 12.5 Square Inch Auto Darkening Lens
• Premium Optics with a Crystal Clear View
• Comfortable Adjustable X6 Headgear
• 3 Year Warranty

Check Latest Price on Amazon

Best Value for Money

Antra AH6 Auto Darkening Welding Helmet

• Full Face and Neck Protection
• Highly Responsive Arc Sensors
• Extremely Lightweight Design for Reduced Muscle Fatigue
• Sonar Panels Extend Battery Life

Check Latest Price on Amazon

Best on a Budget

YESWELDER Solar Powered Auto Darkening Welding Helmet

• Suitable For TIG, MIG, MMA
• 8 Square Inch Viewing Area
• Comes with Replacement Lenses
• Comfortable Pivot Style Headgear
• Get 10% Off with Discount Code 'BWG' at Yeswelder.com

Check Latest Price at Yeswelder

Welding Gloves

If you’re working on welding projects, it’s best not to grab any metal in the welding area. Always make sure that the metal isn’t hot before grabbing any. You can tap it with your hand first to make sure it isn’t hot.

Welding gloves help insulate your hands from extreme temperatures while welding. Don’t grab any metals, especially ones that you just welded, even with your gloves. They might still have areas that are hot and molten.

Best Overall

Rapicca Welding Gloves

• Reinforced Double Layer Kevlar Padding
• Guaranteed to Withstand Temperatures up to 932 F
• 16-inch Extra Long Gloves
• 1.5mm Thick Cowhide Leather

Check Latest Price on Amazon

Best Value for Money

Lincoln Electric Welding Gloves

• High Grade Leather and Soft Cotton Liner
• Kevlar Threading and Leather Reinforced Stree Points
• Inside Cuff Lined with Twill Cotton to Absorb Moisture

Check Latest Price on Amazon

Best for Stick Welding

Miller Electric Welding Gloves

• Fully Welted Seams
• 13-inch Cowhide Leather
• Comfortable Black Liner

Check Latest Price on Amazon

Steel Toe Welding Boots

Steel toe boots protect your feet from falling objects as well as welding arc rays. These welding boots would make sure that your feet won’t get hurt while welding.

Leather/Flame-Resistant Coat

There are still parts of your body that your gloves and boots can’t cover. That’s why you need either a leather or flame-resistant coat. You don’t want your favorite shirt to get a hole and burn your skin as well. 

For stick welding, you should always wear leather to protect yourself from arc spatters. On the other hand, for MIG and TIG welding, a flame-resistant coat is recommended.

You can also check my suggestions for protective equipment essentials for beginner welders.

Wrapping Up

Welding is a highly rewarding yet risky task. Even a beginner welder shouldn’t compromise safety in this field of work.

So can you get sunburnt from welding? It’s highly probable, especially if the proper tools you need are set aside.

In the case of welding sunburn, you now know how to determine the symptoms immediately. We also covered some treatments you can do to lessen the discomfort and even the safety equipment you need to prevent it.

As such, always be cautious and equipped with the appropriate equipment when welding or at a welding site.

The post Can You Get Sunburnt From Welding? appeared first on Beginner Welding Guide.

Welding burns can be treated by running cool water or by using a cold compress over the burn for a few minutes. If the burn is more serious, you may need to seek medical attention. To prevent welding burns, always wear gloves and long-sleeved clothing when working. Make sure to keep your skin covered as much as possible. Also, avoid touching the welding torch directly.

In this article, we will discuss the best ways to treat and prevent welding burns on the skin.

Types of Welding Burns

During welding, two types of burns can occur. First, the ultraviolet (UV) rays of the arc will burn unprotected skin directly. Second, contact or skin burns occur when the hot metal or sparks touch the unprotected skin.

Flash or UV Welding Burns

Flash or UV burns occur when you are burned by the ultraviolet light that comes from the welding source. This type of burn is no different than being burned by the sun.

The burn happens immediately after exposure to UV light, and it is usually more severe than skin burns. These types of burns are common in TIG welding because tig involves a lot of tungsten electrode wire that is often hotter than the welding arc itself.

We know three main types of UV radiation:

• UVA – This radiation type is responsible for the effects of aging on the skin. It can penetrate deep into the skin and cause cellular damage that will result in wrinkles and pigment changes. It is the longest wavelength and the least dangerous form.
• UVB – This radiation is responsible for sunburns. It is a medium-length wave with more energy behind it with power to burn the skin and cause cancer.
• UVC – This type of radiation is luckily blocked by the atmosphere and never makes it down to earth. However, It can be artificially produced with welding equipment.

Flash Burns On Eyes

UV radiation can also cause flash burns to the eyes. This type of burn can occur when you are looking at the welding arc, and it is more common with TIG welding than other types of welding.

The symptoms of a flash burn to the eyes include:

• A feeling of grit or sand in your eyes
• Pain or a burning sensation in your eyes
• Blurred vision or temporary blindness
• Redness and swelling of the eyes

Contact or Skin Welding Burns

Contact or skin welding burns occur when you are burned by the hot metal or sparks that fly off the welding rod. This type of burn is usually more severe than a flash burn, and it can occur even if you are wearing gloves.

They can happen anytime you are near the welding source, but they are most common when you are welding pipes or other small objects. This is because the sparks fly off the welding rod and can easily come into contact with your skin.

There are several types of skin welding burns:

First-Degree Welding Burns

A first-degree welding burn is the most minor type of welding burn. It is a superficial burn that only affects the top layer of the skin. Symptoms include:

• redness
• swelling
• pain

Second-Degree Welding Burns

A second-degree welding burn is more serious than a first-degree burn. It is a partial thickness burn that affects the top and middle layer of the skin. Symptoms include:

• redness
• swelling
• blisters
• pain

Third-Degree Welding Burns

A third-degree welding burn is the most serious type of welding burn. It is a full-thickness burn that affects all layers of the skin. Symptoms include:

• white or black skin
• numbness
• pain

How To Treat Welding Burns?

There are multiple ways to treat welding burns depending on the intensity of the burn. Low to mild-grade burns can be treated at home with first aid while serious burns need immediate professional help.

In any case, we recommend you to visit your nearest hospital for treatment. However, for temporary relief below remedies may help you:

How to Treat Flash or Contact Burns on Skin

1. Cool off your burn – Cool off your burn in the cold water as soon as possible. Do not apply any ice directly to the skin as it can damage your tissue further by attaching itself with your burned skin.
2. Apply cold compress – Apply a cold compress over the burn for a few minutes. This will help soothe your burned skin cells: decrease the intensity of heat and prevent further affecting the remaining cells. Additionally, it will also lessen the burning sensation in the affected area.
3. Take Pain reliefs – If you have mild to severe pain, take ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help relieve pain. Note that taking excessive pain relief medicine may cause constipation. Therefore, we recommend you take the prescription from a medical professional.
4. Seak Medical attention if burn is large – If the burn is large, blistered, or on a sensitive area, seek medical attention. Do not break your blisters because there will more chances of getting affected.

NOTE: Avoid applying petroleum jelly, vaseline, aloe vera jell or any kind of grease on the freshly burned skin. This is because it will increase the risk of bacterial infection as well dissipate the heat. However, you can apply it sometime after your wound is half-healed.

Additional Welding Burn Care Tips

Below we are going to mention further tips and precautions to take care of your welding burns at home until they are healed for good.

• Clean your wound by dipping a cotton cloth in lukewarm water and gently pressing it on your burn.
• Remove old bandages from your wound and replace them with a new, sterile bandage regularly. Make sure to place a layer of gauze on the wound to keep the bandage intact.
• Avoid using excessive amounts of topical medications on the wound.
• Keep your burned area elevated by keeping a pillow or cushion or some clothing under it. It will help reduce the pain.
• Monitor your healing progress. Keep a check on your burn and see for swelling, redness, blisters or infection. If there is no progress, get in touch with your doctor.

Natural Remedies for Treating Welding Burns on the Skin

• Aloe Vera – Aloe vera is a great remedy for first- and second-degree burns. It helps soothe the skin and prevent infection. You can either apply aloe vera gel or juice to the burn or drink it in supplement form.
• Honey – Honey has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help speed up the healing of burns. Apply honey directly to the burn, or mix it with yogurt or olive oil and apply to the skin.
• Tea Tree Oil – Tea tree oil is a natural antiseptic that helps kill bacteria and promote healing. Apply tea tree oil diluted in water to the burn, or add a few drops to your bathtub if you have a large burn.
• Coconut Oil – Coconut oil is a natural moisturizer that helps soothe and heal burns. Apply coconut oil directly to the burn, or mix it with lavender oil and apply to the skin.
• Calendula – Calendula is a natural anti-inflammatory agent that helps soothe burns. Apply calendula ointment to the burn, or take it in supplement form.

Over the Counter Remedies for Treating Welding Burns on the Skin

• Ibuprofen: Ibuprofen is a pain reliever that can help relieve the pain of a burn.
• Acetaminophen: Acetaminophen is another pain reliever that can help relieve the pain of a burn.
• Alcohol: Alcohol can be used to cleanse a burn and prevent infection.
• Silvadene: Silvadene is an antibiotic ointment that can be used to treat burns.

How To Prevent Welding Burns?

There are multiple ways to prevent welding burns, and the most important one is to wear the right safety gear. This includes welding gloves, a welding helmet, and a welding jacket.

I personally prefer a welding jacket like this one by Lincoln Electric. It is designed especially for high-amperage welding and out-of-position welding. It has a two-part armpit design that actually allows you to move your arms which is much more comfortable than the old-fashioned leather jackets.

Use Protective Equipment

The gloves will protect your hands from sparks and hot metal, the helmet will protect your eyes from UV light, and the jacket will protect your skin from the heat. Additionally, make sure your ears are protected either with the helmet or ear cuffs. Because there are high chances of sparks getting into your ear canals and causing burns.

Best Overall

Rapicca Welding Gloves

• Reinforced Double Layer Kevlar Padding
• Guaranteed to Withstand Temperatures up to 932 F
• 16-inch Extra Long Gloves
• 1.5mm Thick Cowhide Leather

Check Latest Price on Amazon

Best Value for Money

Lincoln Electric Welding Gloves

• High Grade Leather and Soft Cotton Liner
• Kevlar Threading and Leather Reinforced Stree Points
• Inside Cuff Lined with Twill Cotton to Absorb Moisture

Check Latest Price on Amazon

Best for Stick Welding

Miller Electric Welding Gloves

• Fully Welted Seams
• 13-inch Cowhide Leather
• Comfortable Black Liner

Check Latest Price on Amazon

TIP: Read my Protective equipment essentials guide.

Wear Fire-Resistant Clothing

Avoid wearing synthetic clothing because it can catch fire easily. Similarly, avoid wearing heavy clothing in winters, because if the sparks cause to fire your upper layers of clothing, chances are you may not know quickly. The best solution is to wear fire-resistant welding aprons, sleeves, and boots for maximum prevention.

Best Overall

Timberland PRO

• Superior Quality and Craftsmanship
• Extremely Comfortable Anti-Fatigue Footbed
• Rubber Outsole
• Durable, Rugged Exterior

Check Latest Price on Amazon

Most Comfortable

Dr. Martens Industry Boots

• Powerful 13 Amp Motor
• 8,500 RPM Grinder Speed
• Adjustable Guard
• Runs off of AC/DC power

Check Price on Amazon

Best on a Budget

Skechers Industrial Boot

• 3/4 Horse Power Induction Motor
• Rugged Cast Iron Base
• Precision Machined Aluminum Tool Rest
• Rear Exhaust Ports in Wheel Guards

Check Price on Amazon

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

Another way to prevent welding burns is to be aware of your surroundings. Make sure there is nothing flammable close to where you are welding, and keep a fire extinguisher nearby just in case.

Safe Welding Techniques

Finally, make sure to practice safe welding techniques. This includes keeping your hands and body away from the welding source, not wearing loose clothing, and avoiding contact with the sparks.

Related Questions

Read Next

• Will Welding Damage My Eyes
• Are Auto-Darkening Welding Helmets Safe
• Can You Touch a Welding Rod During Stick Welding
• Beginner Projects for New Welders
• Best Welding Machine for Beginners
• Why Do Welding Gloves Shrink

The post How To Treat And Prevent Welding Burns? appeared first on Beginner Welding Guide.

Welding could damage your eyes, but only if you are very reckless when protecting them.

There are many things about the welding process that can be very hazardous to your eyes. Starting with the welding process itself, ultraviolet and infrared rays are emitted not just from the welding arc but also from the molten metal. And, both UV and IR are extremely hazardous to your eyes.

However, what is more likely to be more dangerous for a welder’s eyes is debris from the grinding, brushing or chipping process before or after the actual welding is done.

How do ultraviolet and infrared rays harm the eyes?

The worst eye burns I ever received were when I was welding at night with two other welders in the shop. We were welding in close proximity to each other with helmets that had fixed filters. (This was before the auto-darkening helmet was invented.)

The direct and indirect flashes from the side and rear did a number on my eyes. Anyone who has burned their eyes welding knows how painful it can be.

Photokeratitis

When you burn your eyes welding, it is called Photokeratitis. It is basically sunburn of the cornea. While the damage is not permanent, the pain can be severe. It took two days and nights, and nights are the worst, for my eyes to get better.

However, if you received enough UV rays to actually burn your corneas, you just added another dose of UV rays to the total accumulation your eyes have received to date.

Just as our skin feels the burn after several hours in the sun, spending time under intense, unprotected exposure to UV radiation can cause various short-term problems in our eyes.

The short-term effects of UV eye damage may diminish, but the cumulative UV exposure can yellow both the lens and the cornea, making it more difficult to discern contrast in our vision.

What are some other eye problems caused by UV and IR rays?

There are some other eye problems we can mention as well.

Pterygium

Pterygium is another potential result of UV damage and is also known as the “surfer’s eye.”  It is an abnormal growth on the eye’s surface that is usually benign, most often originating in the corner near the nose.

It can cause swelling, irritation, and corneal problems that could affect vision. While the symptoms may be resolved with surgery, they may also re-grow later.

Cataracts

Cataracts are the most common cause of vision loss in people over 40. A cataract is the progressive clouding of the eyes’ lenses. Left untreated, they are ranked globally as a primary cause of reversible blindness.

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that up to 20 percent of all cataract cases are attributable to UV radiation and are preventable. As many as three million surgeries to remove cataracts are performed in the U.S. annually. And according to Prevent Blindness America, more than 20 million Americans have cataracts.

Age-related macular degeneration 

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is another principal cause of vision loss and the leading cause of blindness in adults 60 and older. High UV exposure at a younger age has been significantly associated with early AMD.

Studies suggest that exposure to UV rays early in life is a huge factor in developing AMD. UV radiation can induce photooxidative stress in the retina, and which can lead to AMD. Vision loss from AMD is irreversible. However, early detection and treatment can slow the loss.

Where else might Eye Damage occur in a welding shop?

So, what are some of the jobs performed in the welding shop besides welding?

• Grinding including portable angle grinders and table grinders
• Cutting, includes plasma/torch cutting, chop saw, and bandsaw cutting
• Buffing/cleaning with a stiff wire wheel attached to an angle or bench grinder
• Sanding with a flap wheel on an angle grinder
• Notching pipe
• Chipping and hammering slag

The actual list is much longer, but I think you get the point. If not, the point is that if it rotates, spins, saws, melts steel, or in any way ejects particles of any kind into the air, you need eye and face protection.

OSHA states that thousands of people are blinded each year from work-related eye injuries that could have been prevented with the proper selection and use of eye and face protection.

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, an estimated 90 percent of eye injuries are preventable using proper safety eyewear. Even a minor injury to the cornea, like that from a small particle of dust or debris, can be painful and become a life-long issue.

Types of Welding Eye Protection

Front and center are the lowly but extremely protective safety glasses. Adequate safety glasses must also be certified under the same ANSI Z87.1 code as welding helmets. The same applies to all face and eye-protective gear. If it’s not ANSI-certified, don’t buy it or use it.

Face shields are next up and come in many shapes and sizes. Remember to always wear safety glasses underneath face shields for added protection.

I once saw a friend stuck right between the eyes with a wire from a wire wheel on a 7″ grinder. It went right through his face shield all the way to the bone. Since he didn’t have safety glasses on at the time, he is quite lucky that he did not lose an eye.

TIP: Read my review on the Uvex face shield.

Don’t be a daredevil when it comes to your eyes. Consider having multiple sets of each in and around your work area to find a pair of safety glasses and a face shield when you need them. Many eyes get damaged yearly because the job would take a second or two and proper eye protection wasn’t used.

Related Questions

Read Next

• What are the causes of welding spatter?
• Why Use a Welding Apron?
• My list ob Best Welding Machine for Beginners
• Protective Equipment for the Beginner Welder
• Best Boots for Welders
• Can I get shocked while welding?
• Can I Use Welding Mask to Look at the Eclipse?
• How To Treat And Prevent Welding Burns

The post Is Welding Bad for Your Eyes? appeared first on Beginner Welding Guide.

It’s natural for people to be apprehensive about welding at first. I recall being excited and terrified as I prepared to begin my first weld. In the end, the risk-to-reward ratio is rather high, so you won’t have to worry about injuring yourself if you follow the safety precautions.

Electricity is a powerful source of energy. A controlled circuit of electricity is used to perform the work when welding. The electricity arcing across a gap generating heat does the work.

This heat, generated between the electrode or wire and the base metal, melts the base metals and filler metal together. This combines them all into one material. And once the pool of molten metal cools, you have a finished weld.

What is the Potential for receiving a shock when welding?

Electricity always flows through the path of least resistance. If you are dry and standing on a dry surface, your body has more resistance to electrical flow than the metals you work with.

The electricity encounters less resistance flowing through the base metals and back through the ground cable than it does through you. However, if you are the only conduit bridging an electrical circuit, you will likely receive a shock.

Getting shocked while welding is possible. Especially if you, your gloves, clothes, the floor, or the metals you are attempting to weld, are wet.

NOTE: Always avoid welding in the rain or snow. Make sure there are no sources of water or liquids that could accidentally come into contact with you while you are welding and you wear dry welding gloves and clothing.

Here are my recommendations for high-quality welding gloves to protect you while welding:

Best Overall

Rapicca Welding Gloves

• Reinforced Double Layer Kevlar Padding
• Guaranteed to Withstand Temperatures up to 932 F
• 16-inch Extra Long Gloves
• 1.5mm Thick Cowhide Leather

Check Latest Price on Amazon

Best Value for Money

Lincoln Electric Welding Gloves

• High Grade Leather and Soft Cotton Liner
• Kevlar Threading and Leather Reinforced Stree Points
• Inside Cuff Lined with Twill Cotton to Absorb Moisture

Check Latest Price on Amazon

Best for Stick Welding

Miller Electric Welding Gloves

• Fully Welted Seams
• 13-inch Cowhide Leather
• Comfortable Black Liner

Check Latest Price on Amazon

Even body sweat can and will increase the possibility of receiving a shock. Water is not necessarily a great conductor of electricity but has much less resistance than you.

Additionally, to avoid electrical shock, never touch the electrode, metal parts of the electrode holder or any exposed wire connecting the electrode holder to the machine.

Also, avoid welding while standing on metal floors such as grating or scaffolding. and replace damaged electrode holders immediately.

Inspect Welding Leads to Reduce Potential Shock Hazard

To further reduce the potential for shock hazard, before each job inspect both leads from the point where they leave the machine to their respective ends. Have the leads replaced at the first sign of worn, cracked, or missing insulation.

Always replace welding handles, electrode holders and ground lead clamps at the first sign of damage.

A great sister article this one is Protective Equipment Essentials for the Beginner welder. Be sure to educate yourself on basic PPE equipment.

Unplug The Welding Machine itself

Performing repairs on a welding machine or even changing wire spools on a MIG welder potentially exposes you to a higher voltage and current than welding does. It is imperative to turn off the machine and unplug it completely.

Unplugging is the only way to ensure that no electricity is present anywhere within the machine. Flipping the switch off only cuts the power to the leads. The machine should always be considered energized when still plugged in.

The current will always be AC or alternating current inside the welding machine.

Do I need to Unplug the MIG welder when changing spools or the Polarity?

Always unplug a MIG welder before opening the spool access door to change the spools or the polarity. If you are changing the spool, follow the instructions for your machine to feed the wire through the wire feeder correctly.

Then, close the access door before plugging the welder in. Pull the trigger until the new wire comes through the welding handle tip.

NOTE: If you just switched from flux core wire to MIG wire, for example, you may need to also change the polarity inside the welder. Again, unplug the welder before opening the access door and follow the instructions.  As always, after changing the polarity, close the access door before plugging the machine back in.

Make sure to locate the welding machine in a safe, dry place. Plug the welder into a circuit with the correct-sized breaker installed for the load.

• Single pole, 15 Amp, 120V type QP Circuit Breaker
• 10,000 AIC interrupting rating
• Easy plug-in connections and the time saving insta-wire feature
• Use for overload and short-circuit protection of your electrical system

Check Price On Amazon

Inspect the plug and power cord for worn or cut insulation exposing bare wires.

Is AC or DC Welding more dangerous?

Generally speaking, welding with DC may be safer than welding with AC. If you are shocked, DC is not as likely to stop your heart as AC due to the rapid switching of the polarity of alternating current sending the heart into fibrillation.

It only takes 50 milliamperes to cause death. When shocked with AC, your muscles contract, making alternating current more likely to keep you from letting go of the electricity source if you have a grip on it at the time.

Even if it doesn’t cause death directly, a shock can cause you to fall. The fall itself could be dangerous or fatal depending on where you are and your positioning at the time. Other potential injuries from receiving a shock include burns and nerve damage.

What should you do if you are shocked while welding?

Damage caused by electrical burns can be severe. However, the severity is not always immediately evident.

Immediately after shutting off the power, contact emergency medical personnel. Necessary first aid may consist of CPR, treating for shock, and washing burns with clean water before covering with a clean bandage.

How many people are injured each year while welding?

Fatalities from electrical shock while welding is rare. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported less than 50 fatalities from all causes among all metal workers in 2000. Personally, I have been shocked on a couple of occasions.

Once, while welding outside, snow and snowmelt covered everything, including me. I was lucky if it was a mild shock, but it did get my attention. Enough so, that I let everything dry up for a few days before working on the project again.

So, enjoy learning to weld. It can be very rewarding and safe. Simply follow a few basic rules. And never forget, just as with any job that involves tools and machinery, an injury is only one action away if you fail to follow basic safety precautions.

Marry some metal today!

Keep Reading

• How to select Welding Amperage?
• Why Use a Welding Apron?
• Are Welding Machines Hard to Use?
• How to Weld Vehicle Frame?
• 8 Beginner Tips for MIG Welding
• 5 Beginner Welding Mistakes
• A Welding Guide for Beginners
• How to Use a Plasma Cutter
• MIG vs TIG Welding
• Can you touch a welding electrode during welding?

The post Can a Welder Shock You? And How to Avoid It appeared first on Beginner Welding Guide.