Safety and precautions for welding and cutting operations

1. All power terminal wiring must be performed by a qualified electrician. If there is a welding or power line failure, the welder should immediately contact an authorized electrician for assistance.

2. Welders must wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including specialized protective clothing, insulated shoes, and gloves that meet safety standards. Sleeves should not be rolled up, and a protective mask must be worn to prevent eye injuries. Before starting any welding work, all flammable, hazardous, and explosive materials should be removed from the area. Any pressure within containers or pipes must be released, and sealed containers should be opened by removing the cap or valve.

3. Before beginning any welding operation, check the surrounding area for flammable materials. If found, they must be cleared or isolated with proper measures in place, and a dedicated person should be assigned to monitor the site.

4. When working at heights, a designated person must be present to control the power supply and secure the cables. Power lines must be lifted using ropes after the power is disconnected, and must never be carried or crossed from a height.

5. Welding should not be conducted in rainy, snowy, or windy conditions. If it is unavoidable, proper precautions such as rain shields, anti-electric shock measures, and spark protection must be implemented.

6. During welding, the welder must avoid touching the metal being welded or any conductive objects to prevent electrical hazards.

7. Other maintenance personnel must stay clear of the welding area, especially the head region. Sealed containers must never be welded without prior inspection and proper venting.

8. The welder must remain insulated from the welding object, and the surrounding area of the container should be monitored by a supervisor during the process.

9. After completing the welding, the area should be isolated or guarded to prevent burns and potential fire hazards.

10. At the end of the shift, ensure the ground is checked for any remaining embers, the power is turned off, and all tools are properly stored before leaving the site.

11. Before starting work, the welder must inspect the flashback arrestor and all tools to ensure they are in good working condition. All connections on acetylene cylinders, gas bottles, hose joints, and valves must be tight and free from leaks, cracks, or damage. Oxygen cylinders and their accessories must not come into contact with oil or grease.

12. Gas hoses for oxygen and acetylene must be inspected before use. If there is any leakage, aging, bulging, or deterioration, they must not be used. Hoses should be kept clean and free from debris. Oxygen and acetylene hoses must never be used interchangeably.

13. Prior to starting any work, the area should be checked for flammable materials. If any are found, they must be removed or properly isolated, with a dedicated person assigned to supervise.

14. Before connecting the oxygen pressure gauge, use a special wrench to slightly open the cylinder valve to release a small amount of oxygen, blowing out any dirt or impurities from the valve. Personnel should stand to the side of the opening while performing this task, and the valve should never be opened facing downward.

15. Acetylene and oxygen cylinders must be placed upright to prevent tipping. They must not be stored near heat sources, electrical equipment, or other flammable items. A minimum distance of 10 meters from open flames is required.

16. When opening the valves of oxygen or acetylene cylinders, do not use iron tools. Instead, use approved tools and operate slowly to avoid sparks. Never stand directly in front of the regulator when opening the valve.

17. Before igniting the torch, quickly open the welding torch valve and use oxygen to blow through the nozzle to ensure it is clear. Avoid using the torch in windless conditions and never aim the flame toward your face when testing the airflow.

18. When lighting the torch, first slightly open the oxygen valve, then the acetylene valve. When stopping, close the acetylene valve first, followed by the oxygen valve to prevent backfire. If the torch explodes or vibrates, immediately close the acetylene valve and allow it to cool before repairing. Never throw the lit torch around, and extinguish it when necessary.

19. When working on a machine or at height, install a safety shield beneath the cutting area to prevent molten metal from falling and causing fires or burns to others.

20. Familiarize yourself with the location and condition of fire-fighting equipment. Ensure at least two dry powder fire extinguishers are available near the welding area. After finishing the work, thoroughly inspect the ground to ensure no embers remain.

21. Do not completely empty the oxygen cylinder. Leave at least 1–2 atmospheres of gas inside to maintain safe pressure levels.

22. Maintain a minimum distance of 10 meters between the oxygen cylinder and any open flame source.

Welders must follow these guidelines when placing and using acetylene cylinders:

23. The temperature of the environment where acetylene cylinders are used or transported should not exceed 40°C. Keep them away from heat sources and electrical equipment. In summer, avoid direct sunlight and maintain a minimum distance of 10 meters from open flames.

24. For mobile work environments, acetylene cylinders should be placed on a dedicated cart. They must not be stored together with oxygen cylinders or other flammable substances.

25. Always install a proper pressure reducer and flashback arrestor before using the acetylene cylinder. When opening the valve, the operator should stand to the side of the valve and perform the action slowly and carefully.

26. Never fully empty the acetylene cylinder. Maintain a minimum pressure of 1 bar to ensure safe handling.

27. Do not store acetylene cylinders alongside oxygen cylinders or other flammable materials.

28. Before using an oxygen cylinder, check that it has a base, a shock-absorbing rubber ring, and a safety cap. It should also have a clear “Oxygen” label. Do not store it with other types of gas cylinders.

29. When handling oxygen cylinders, always secure the hardhat and handle them gently to avoid vibration. Do not throw or roll them, and avoid transporting them with oils or greases.

30. During winter, take extra care to avoid impacts or vibrations that could cause brittle fractures in the oxygen cylinder.

China Labor Insurance Network