Welding
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) establishes standards and regulations to ensure safe practices in welding, cutting, and brazing. These standards aim to minimize the risk of injury and health hazards associated with welding.
Welding operations, commonly referred to as "hot work", involves joining materials by melting a base metal along with a filler material to create a strong bond. Welding processes are categorized into two primary types:
- Fusion welding (using heat alone), and
- Pressure welding (combining heat and pressure).
Fusion welding is further divided into three subcategories: electric arc, gas, and thermit welding. Among those, electric arc is the most widely utilized due to its efficiency and versatility.
To ensure worker safety, OSHA mandates the use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to guard and protect against burns, ultraviolet (UV) radiation, spark, and fumes. Required PPE includes:
- Welding helmets with proper filter lenses;
- Flame-resistant gloves and clothing; and
- Eye and face protection (e.g., face shields, safety goggles).
By adhering to OSHA's guidelines and utilizing proper PPE, individuals engaging in welding operations can maintain a safe and productive working environment.
Resources & Forms
OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1910 Subpart Q - Welding, Cutting, and Brazing
OSHA Fact Sheet - Controlling Hazardous Fume and Gases during Welding
Training
Employees performing welding operations ("hot work") are required to be trained in
the safe operation of the equipment used in these operations. Initial training must
be completed before exposure to hazards or prior to beginning work in hazardous areas.
Hot Work/Arc Welding - HTW-1.2
This online course is provided to assist in meeting the requirements of OSHA Standard
29 CFR 1910.252, General Requirements and 1910.254, Arc Welding and Cutting. Assignment
of this course is managed by the Hazardous Material Safety Manager (HMSM). For additional
information, contact the HMSM at 817-257-5395 or safety@tcu.edu.