How to stay safe and healthy as a metalworker

Hello everyone,

It's great to see all of you again! As you all know, welding and metalworking can be a challenging, yet incredibly rewarding profession. But, it's important to remember that safety should always be our top priority. So, today I want to take some time to talk about protective gear, steps you can take to stay healthy, and some best practices for a long and healthy career in welding and metalworking.

First things first, let's talk about protective gear. Welding produces intense light, heat, and radiation, which can all be harmful to our eyes and skin. That's why it's essential to wear proper gear to protect ourselves. Some key pieces of gear include welding helmets with auto-darkening lenses, gloves, protective clothing, and welding curtains. It is important to keep your welding helmet clear and clean so that you maintain your spacial awareness. You can buff your outside lense cover to get rid of scratches and extend its life. There is no good excuse for welding with a scratched and dirty helmet!

But, it's not just about wearing the gear. You also need to make sure it fits properly and is in good condition. For example, if your welding helmet doesn't fit correctly, it won't protect your eyes from harmful radiation. If you are wearing short sleeves and shorts, the UV light from your arc can cause intense sunburn and skin cancer over time. If your gloves have holes, they won't protect your hands from heat (There is nothing worse than touching a hot piece of metal and realizing there is a hole in the finger of your glove). Always make sure to inspect your gear regularly and replace it as needed.

Now, let's talk about some steps you can take to stay healthy while welding. One of the biggest health risks associated with welding is exposure to fumes and gases. Some of these fumes can be toxic, so it's important to work in a well-ventilated area. You can also wear a respirator to help filter out any harmful particles. If you can, invest in a ventilation hood system or, there are many DIY vents that you can create to draw your welding glasses and abrasive dust away from your lungs while you’re working.