Weld Purging Safety Tips Every Professional Should Know
Practicing work safety is extremely important when your profession is welding. You must remain aware of your surroundings and pay close attention to the task at hand. Weld purging safety tips are critical information you need to know and follow to thwart dangers that may arise while working on the job.
Perform Inspections Before Every Purge
Before every new purge, the employee should inspect gas flow regulators, purge dams, gas hose lines, and atmospheric testing devices. Inspect every piece of equipment for cracks, tears, and punctures. Failing to inspect the equipment can result in uncontrollable gas leaking and unstable working conditions, producing harmful—even deadly—work environments. Fix any malfunctions as soon as you notice them.
Take Precautions for Shutdown Maintenance
After you finish a weld purge process, products such as oil and gas can remain inside the pipe containing toxic and explosive fumes. After the purge is done, take every precaution and replace portions of the equipment with cold cutting to avoid igniting the fumes inside. Ventilate the worksite and keep flame and other high heat instruments away while cold cutting until the zone is secure again.
Familiarize Yourself With the Dangers of Argon and Nitrogen Gas
Argon and nitrogen gases are hard to detect without proper equipment, and prolonged exposure can cause asphyxiation, leading to loss of consciousness within one minute of exposure. Permanent brain damage can occur in three minutes, and death in five minutes. Dangers like this become more critical in confined workspaces, and employees should take every precaution necessary when using noble gases to ensure the safety of every worker inside.
Use a Complete Purging System and a Weld Purge Monitor
When you decide on pipe purging equipment, we recommend getting a complete system so you have all components to create a safe work environment. Weld purge monitors are also helpful in detecting atmospheric pressure and gas levels. Never settle for adequate gear and equipment; always opt for the best quality equipment you can find.
Weld purging safety tips should be taken seriously and at the forefront of every employee’s mind when working on a weld purge site. As long as you remain aware of your surroundings and double-check measurements, the workspace should be safe. Ignoring these tips can result in detrimental injuries or irreversible damage to your health.