Welding is dangerous when not handled properly. Individuals need specific tools to complete these jobs safely. The following safety items are essential for any person who uses a welder.
Auto-Darkening Helmet
Always wear an auto-darkening helmet when operating a Lincoln multiprocess welder or any welder. This helmet protects the eyes, face, and neck from harm. Without it, a person is more susceptible to ultraviolet and infrared rays. Flash burns or severe sparks may also injure them. The shaded lens allows light to come in so the user can see through the helmet, also known as a hood.
Welding Jacket
Welding jackets are constructed using fire-resistant material to protect the user and the welder from the extreme heat generated by these machines. The jacket also ensures that the metal splatter generated by the welding process won’t harm them.
Gloves
Welding gloves protect hands from damage when working with hot materials. They have heat-resistant linings that can withstand extremely high temperatures. Choose from TIG welding gloves, MIG welding gloves, or stick welding gloves. TIG gloves are extremely thin, allowing the user to manipulate the materials being welded.
Safety Glasses
A welder’s helmet isn’t appropriate in all situations. Safety glasses are a good alternative because they protect the eyes from optical radiation and heat generated during the welding process. The glasses are made of durable plastic and can be used when the welder won’t severely spark.
Ear Protection
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 22 million individuals are exposed to high noise levels at work each year, and this noise may damage their hearing. Welders need ear protection to prevent this hearing loss.
Welding Boots or Steel-Toe Work Shoes
Work-related foot injuries are also common. Steel-toe shoes or welding boots protect the feet from hot and heavy materials that may fall while working. Look for footwear with thick leather and steel reinforcements for the highest level of protection.
Welding Sleeves
Welding sleeves protect the arms like steel-toe shoes or welding boots protect the feet. Manufacturers use leather or non-flammable material to construct the sleeves, which are attached to a welding apron or come with suspenders and can be detached as needed. They protect the arms from flying sparks and reduce the risk of clothing catching on fire from one of these sparks.
Grinding Visor
Welders often must grind metal. They must ensure their eyes are protected from flying debris when doing so. A grinding visor provides this protection.
Welding Table or Cart
Welding tables and carts make it easy for individuals to complete their tasks and provide a stable surface for tools. Shops often have fixed tables that welders use. Mobile welders need carts to transport the welder and other tools quickly and easily.
Welding Pliers
Welding pliers and vice grips make picking up heated metal pieces easy. They are helpful when items are too hot for welding gloves, and the pliers can remove nozzles from the MIG welder. A welder might also use the pliers to clear splatter from a nozzle.
This list shares standard tools used by welders. It is far from exhaustive. Welders also benefit from other items, including hand files, chipping hammers, squaring tools, and welding magnets. When purchasing equipment, always prioritize safety. A person who lacks the proper equipment will often be harmed and find they cannot weld, so this equipment must be used every time they turn on the machine.
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