ESAB ESP-150 - Page 6

6
SECTION 1 SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
1. Be sure the power source frame (chassis) is con-
nected to the ground system of the input power.
2. Connect the workpiece to a good electrical
ground.
3. Connect the work cable to the workpiece. A poor
or missing connection can expose you or others to
a fatal shock.
4. Use well-maintained equipment. Replace worn or
damaged cables.
5. Keep everything dry, including clothing, work area,
cables, torch/electrode holder, and power source.
6. Make sure that all parts of your body are insulated
from work and from ground.
7. Do not stand directly on metal or the earth while
working in tight quarters or a damp area; stand
on dry boards or an insulating platform and wear
rubber-soled shoes.
8. Put on dry, hole-free gloves before turning on the
power.
9. Turn o the power before removing your gloves.
10. Refer to ANSI/ASC Standard Z49.1 (listed on next
page) for specic grounding recommendations. Do
not mistake the work lead for a ground cable.
ELECTRIC AND MAGNETIC FIELDS — May be
dangerous. Electric current owing through any
conductor causes localized Electric
and Magnetic Fields (EMF). Weld-
ing and cutting current creates EMF
around welding cables and welding
machines. Therefore:
1. Welders having pacemakers should consult their
physician before welding. EMF may interfere with
some pacemakers.
2. Exposure to EMF may have other health eects which
are unknown.
3. Welders should use the following procedures to
minimize exposure to EMF:
A. Route the electrode and work cables together.
Secure them with tape when possible.
B. Never coil the torch or work cable around your
body.
C. Do not place your body between the torch and
work cables. Route cables on the same side of
your body.
D. Connect the work cable to the workpiece as close
as possible to the area being welded.
E. Keep welding power source and cables as far away
from your body as possible.
FUMES AND GASES -- Fumes and
gases, can cause discomfort or harm,
particularly in conned spaces. Do
not breathe fumes and gases. Shield-
ing gases can cause asphyxiation.
Therefore:
1. Always provide adequate ventilation in the work area
by natural or mechanical means. Do not weld, cut, or
gouge on materials such as galvanized steel, stain-
less steel, copper, zinc, lead, beryllium, or cadmium
unless positive mechanical ventilation is provided.
Do not breathe fumes from these materials.
2. Do not operate near degreasing and spraying opera-
tions. The heat or arc rays can react with chlorinated
hydrocarbon vapors to form phosgene, a highly toxic
gas, and other irritant gases.
3. If you develop momentary eye, nose, or throat irrita-
tion while operating, this is an indication that ventila-
tion is not adequate. Stop work and take necessary
steps to improve ventilation in the work area. Do not
continue to operate if physical discomfort persists.
4. Refer to ANSI/ASC Standard Z49.1 (see listing below)
for specic ventilation recommendations.