Welding Safety Information

Welding equipment can present serious safety risks if not used correctly. Welding involves high temperatures, electrical energy, ultraviolet radiation, and hazardous fumes. Users are responsible for ensuring equipment is operated safely and in accordance with the instructions provided.

This page provides general user safety information to help identify common welding hazards and outline practical measures that may reduce risk. It does not replace product manuals, training, workplace procedures, or regulatory requirements.

Electrical Safety

Welding equipment operates at potentially dangerous voltages and currents. Electric shock may occur through damaged leads, poor earthing, direct contact with live components, or operation in wet or conductive environments.

• Ensure welding equipment is correctly earthed and connected to a suitable power supply.
• Inspect power leads, welding leads, torches, and connectors for damage before use.
• Do not operate welding equipment in wet or damp conditions.
• Disconnect equipment from mains power before opening covers, servicing, or replacing components.

Arc Radiation (UV / IR / Visible Light)

Welding arcs generate intense ultraviolet and infrared radiation that can cause eye injuries (arc eye) and skin burns. Exposure may occur directly or from reflected arc light.

• Always use a welding helmet with the correct shade lens for the welding process.
• Wear protective clothing that fully covers exposed skin.
• Use welding screens or barriers to protect others in the work area.

Fumes and Gases

Welding fumes and gases may present both short-term and long-term health risks. Additional hazards may be present when welding materials such as stainless steel, galvanised or coated steels, and aluminium. Shielding gases such as argon are colourless and odourless and can displace oxygen in confined or poorly ventilated spaces.

• Ensure adequate ventilation or local fume extraction is used.
• Position work to keep fumes out of the breathing zone.
• Avoid welding in confined or enclosed spaces without appropriate controls.
• Use suitable respiratory protection where ventilation or extraction is insufficient.
• Be aware of additional hazards when welding unknown or coated materials.

Heat, Fire, and Burns

Welding and cutting processes generate extreme heat, sparks, and molten metal that can cause burns or ignite flammable materials.

• Wear flame-resistant gloves, clothing, and appropriate footwear.
• Keep flammable materials clear of the welding area.
• Allow welded components to cool before handling.
• Keep suitable fire extinguishing equipment readily available.

Noise and Mechanical Hazards

Welding and associated activities such as grinding and cutting can generate high noise levels and mechanical hazards.

• Use hearing protection where required.
• Secure workpieces properly before welding.
• Be cautious of sharp edges, hot surfaces, and heavy components.

Gas Cylinder Safety

Shielding gas cylinders are high-pressure vessels and must be handled and stored safely.

• Secure cylinders in an upright position.
• Use the correct regulators and fittings for the gas type.
• Inspect hoses, regulators, and connections for damage or leaks before use.

General Safety

• Read and follow all operating and safety instructions supplied with the product before use.
• Use welding equipment only for its intended purpose.
• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including welding helmet or face shield, safety glasses, gloves, flame-resistant clothing, and safety footwear.
• Maintain a clean, dry, and safe work area free from unnecessary hazards and flammable materials.
• Servicing: Inspection, servicing, and repair should be carried out by suitably qualified personnel. Where SWS authorises a user to perform servicing or component replacement, this must be completed strictly in accordance with the instructions provided and with appropriate safety precautions in place.

User Responsibility

Users are responsible for assessing the suitability of equipment for their application and ensuring appropriate safety measures are implemented. In workplace environments, users must comply with applicable workplace health and safety laws, regulations, and relevant codes of practice.

Important

This information is provided as a general guide to user safety and does not replace the operating instructions and safety documentation supplied with each product. Always follow the documentation provided with the equipment and comply with applicable Australian Standards and workplace safety requirements.

User manuals and safety documentation for current and past SWS products are available on our website. Users should ensure they are referencing the correct documentation for their specific model before operation.