Welding Inspection & Metallurgy API ICP Self Study Notes

4.7 SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Inspectors should be aware of the hazards associated with welding and take
appropriate steps to prevent injury while performing inspection tasks. As a
minimum, the site’s safety rules and regulations should be reviewed as
applicable to welding operations. Hazards that the inspector would more
commonly encounter in the presence of welding include arc radiation, air
contamination, airborne debris, and heat.
The arc is a source of visible, ultraviolet and infrared light. As such, eye
protection using proper filters and proper clothing to cover the skin should be
used. Proper ventilation is necessary to remove air-borne particulates, which
include vaporized metals. In areas of inadequate ventilation, filtered breathing
protection may be required. The use of gas-shielded processes in confined
spaces can create an oxygen deficient environment. Ventilation practice in
these instances should be carefully reviewed. Welding can produce sparks
and other airborne debris that can burn the eyes. Appropriate precautions are
necessary.