When welding, it's crucial to prioritize safety due to the potential hazards from fumes, gases, sparks, and radiation 6, 8, 10. Here's a breakdown of key safety measures:

1. Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation to keep worker exposure below applicable limits for fumes, gases, and other by-products of welding 3, 4. Use local exhaust ventilation or a mechanical system to prevent oxygen deficiency and keep hazardous fumes and gases below exposure limits 3, 4.
2. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

• Wear appropriate hand, head, and body protection to prevent injury from radiation and sparks 5, 6. This includes welder's gloves and protective goggles, and may include arm protectors, aprons, hats, and shoulder protection as well as substantial clothing 5, 6.
• Eye protection is essential. Wear safety glasses with side shields [1] or protective goggles 5, 6.
• Consider flame-resistant anti-static safety clothing and safety shoes 5, 6.

3. Safe Handling and Storage of Gases (if applicable):

• Keep away from heat, hot surfaces, sparks, open flames, and other ignition sources. No smoking 3, 4.
• Use only non-sparking tools and explosion-proof equipment 3, 4.
• Protect cylinders from physical damage and always keep the valve cover in place while moving them 3, 4.
• Store cylinders in a well-ventilated area, away from ignition sources, and secure them upright 3, 4.

4. Fire Prevention:

• Arcs and sparks can ignite combustible materials, so prevent fires 8, 10.
• Refer to NFPA 51B, Standard for Fire Prevention During Welding, Cutting, and Other Hotwork 8, 10.

5. Health Hazards:

• Fumes and gases produced during welding and cutting processes can be dangerous to your health and may cause serious lung disease 8, 10.
• Keep your head out of fumes and do not breathe fumes and gases 8, 10.
• Short-term overexposure to fumes may cause dizziness, nausea, and dryness or irritation of the nose, throat, and eyes 3, 4, 8, 10.

6. General Precautions:

• Read and understand the manufacturer's instructions and precautionary labels on products used in welding and cutting 8, 10.
• Never strike an arc on a container, as this may lead to container rupture 8, 10.
• When mixing chemicals, be aware of potential unexpected hazards and consult safety information for each component 8, 10.

By adhering to these guidelines and continuously reinforcing safety practices, you can significantly reduce the risks associated with welding operations.