GMAW Safety and Arc Rays Hazards

As with most common welding processes, GMAW can produce an intense welding arc resulting in infrared and ultraviolet rays. The GMAW process can provide a higher arc energy than the Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) process, commonly referred to as the “stick welding” process.
When using GMAW and when welding reflective metals such as stainless and aluminum, the arc intensity is usually further enhanced. The resulting intense weld light and rays can easily burn exposed skin or create unacceptable ozone levels.
When welding, all parts of the body should be protected from the effects of the arc.
A welding flash is a common occurrence in the welding industry. A weld flash usually occurs when a welder looks at the welding arc. The weld flash symptoms usually occurs 4 to 8 hours after the flash has occurred. The flash and it’s side effects may last from 5 to 30 hours. If the welder receives a flash, the welders eyes will feel as if they are burnt, profuse tears are normal. Two things that may provide relief from a weld flash are a cold wet cloth placed over the eyes and sleep.
Wearing recommended welding safety glasses with side shields will reduce the effects of the arc radiation. The glasses also provide protection from the typical hazards of a weld shop environment. The welding shield is designed to protect the welders face and neck. The arc filter lens should let enough light in to make the weld joint clearly visible. The higher the lens filter numbers the higher the current used. For example, a low current short circuit transfer application using 100 to 220 amps may use filter shade numbers of 8 to 9. For high current spray transfer applications 220 to 300 amps, consider a shade number 10. When using GREATER than 300 amps consider a 10 or 11 shadeIn the case of dark filter cracks or the filter is damaged from weld spatter, a recommended clear plastic or glass cover over the filter lens is required for additional eye protection.
Welders have a responsibility not only to protect themselves from arc rays, but also to protect their fellow workers. Each welder should ensure that their weld area is provided with the recommended weld screens that protect the other employees. Management should be aware that bright colors on the walls can reflect the arc rays adding to the flash potential.
GMAW Safety Clothing
Weld spatter can cause skin burns, holes in clothing can easily ignite. Dark clothes reduce arc reflection, leather or fire proof jackets are recommended. Cotton clothes can be affected by arc ultraviolet radiation. Keep work clothes free of grease oil and paint. Do not use oxygen to blow debris from work clothes as oxygen supports combustion. Pant cuff are NOT permitted. Protect feet with steel toed metatarsal protection. Use recommended leather welding gloves. For high amp applications, give consideration to additional hand protection. At the completion of a weld the welder may have to replace the nozzle or tip. Be sure welding gloves are worn when handling hot gun items or the welded parts. Be sure to keep hands and fingers away from the tip prior to pulling the trigger. It is possible to run the wire thru you fingers / hands.
GMAW Safety Test
Why protect your arms and neck from the arc rays that occur in GMAW welding?
a. The rays will cause flash ______
b. The rays can burn the skin ______
c. The rays will help hair grow ______
What causes weld flash?
The metal you weld causes the flash ______
The welder exposes his eyes to infrared / ultraviolet arc rays ______
The welder sees the weld voltage ______
What 2 items protect the welder from flash?
Exhaust equipment ______
Insulation ______
Protective glasses and lens ______
Avoiding unprotected eye contact with the arc ______
Why use dark clothing for welding?
They are more difficult to burn ______
They increase arc reflection ______
They decrease arc reflection ______
I want to look pretty cool ______
I don’t need to wear safety glasses under my weld shield
True _____
False _____