This page will include video and textual links to safety and orientation documentation we'd like you to read before attending our welding classes. This gives us more time to focus on setup and technique while class.

• Attire
  • Welding helmets are always required when operating the welder
    • Weld arcs are brighter than the sun - any extended viewing of these can cause eye damage and peeling
    • We currently have two auto darkening helmets, and one manual
    • Position the welding screen between you and others in the space, and announce when you're beginning welding
      • “EYES” is a common refrain
    • Face shields for grinding or cleaning up metal are also available
  • Welding jackets and gloves are available for use
    • Welding processes often produce flying shards of molten metal, which hurt a lot on bare skin and flammable clothing
    • Rolled up sleeves and your hair are painful locations for this spatter to nestle into
    • Please take the appropriate precautions when deciding how to gear yourself for welding

• Electrical Shock (from https://ohsonline.com/Articles/2014/04/01/Be-Prepared.aspx)
  • Electric shock is one of the most serious and immediate risks facing a welder. Electric shock can lead to severe injury or death, either from the shock itself or from a fall caused by the reaction to a shock
  • Electric shock occurs when welders touch two metal objects that have a voltage between them, thereby inserting themselves into the electrical circuit
  • The most common type of electric shock is secondary voltage shock from an arc welding circuit, which ranges from 20 to 100 volts
  • Never to touch the electrode or metal parts of the electrode holder with skin or welding clothing
  • Insulate yourself from the work and ground. No bare feet, no wet clothing
  • Inspect the electrode holder and cabling for damage

• Fumes and Dust
  • Overexposure to welding fumes and gases can be hazardous to your health
  • Create adequate ventilation when operating the welder at the space - open garage door, turn on exhaust in the wood shop side
  • Consider dust and debris created when grinding and preparing material
    • If others are at the space, doing this outside will help everyone

• Fire
  • The welding arc creates extreme temperatures and may pose a significant fire and explosion hazard if safe practices are not followed
  • Spatter can reach up to 35 feet away from the welding space
  • Inspect the work area for any flammable materials and remove them from the area

Feel free to watch any or all of these videos before class. These give you a general idea about the welding process being taught. These in no way substitute attending an orientation class.

Arc Welding 2 by Steve Bleile (Eric's recommendation)
Weld.com's STICK WELDING 101
WELDING: THE BEST WAY TO LEARN! (CW:Language)

Weld.com's Beginners Guide to MIG Welding
MIG WELDER MISTAKES (CW:Language)