Policies and safety equipment help protect welders

As Minnesota workers may know, welding is a dangerous job and more so if fire safety policies are not in place. Workers becoming familiar with the type of work and where it is done can lead to complacency and a lack of precaution. Taking time to inspect one’s work place before starting is a good way to stay safe.

Environmental factors, seen and unseen, need to be considered. For instance, pieces of clothing lying about or rags are easily combustible, and the area needs to be inspected before beginning the job. Pieces of welding debris may fall in cracks and pose a fire danger. In addition, tanks or pipes in the vicinity may hold flammable liquids or gas.

Some hazards associated with welding are burn injuries, inhalation of noxious fumes and heat exhaustion. Combustibles left where a welder is working present a hazard, particularly when a welder is working in an unfamiliar area.

The correct safety equipment and policies help protect welders when working. An emergency plan for fire or injury is paramount to protecting welders and other workers in case of fire or injury. Keeping first aid equipment, particularly burn creams and bandages, and emergency numbers nearby in the event of an accident is necessary. Safety gear, including suits resistant to heat, masks and goggles are considerations that help protect welders.

When workers suffer a workplace accident such as those incurred by welders, the accident may result in lost time from work and expenses associated with medical care. Injured workers may benefit from a consultation with an attorney about their eligibility to file a claim for workers’ compensation benefits. An attorney may assist injured workers in understanding to what benefits they are entitled and may also be of service if an appeal of a denial of a claim is required.