Shop Safety Manual

16 Shop Safety use may be an appropriate means of protection. The issuance of respirators to employees must be completed as specified in the ISU Respiratory Protection Program to ensure proper respirator selection, fit-testing, medical surveillance, and to meet regulatory requirements. In some cases shop users may choose to voluntarily use a respirator even if it is not required. Voluntary respirator use is also subject to certain requirements as outlined in the ISU Respiratory Protection Program. Welding and Cutting Welding and cutting are two forms of hot work that require special safety considerations. These operations must be performed in a designated area by trained individuals, with appropriate SOP’s including PPE requirements and ventilation instructions. Hot work operations that cannot be performed in designated areas must be conducted according to the ISU Hot Work Permit Program. When welding; ensure that the welding helmet visor is dark enough to provide adequate protection. See the OSHA guidance 1910.252(b) (2)(ii)(H) to select the correct shade numbers. Wear fireproof apron and gloves. If necessary, use a welding curtain to protect bystanders from UV radiation. In addition to the general guidelines for welding and cutting, follow these specific guidelines for safe welding operations: • Ensure theweldingareahasanon-reflective, noncombustiblesurface. • Ensure that adequate ventilation is installed and is functional. • Ensure that electrical cords are properly grounded. • Keep cylinder fittings and hoses free from oil and grease. • Ensure acetylene/oxygen systems are equipped with flame or flashback arrestors. • Replace defective or damaged hoses. • Carefully purge hoses and torches before connecting to a cylinder. • Always use the minimum acceptable flow rate. • Never use amatch to light a torch. Use an approved lighter or striker. • Do not tamper with or attempt to repair cylinders, valves, or regulators. • Ensure flammable and combustible materials are not in the vicinity during hot work operations. • Close cylinder valves after each use. Half-face respirator Common hazards associated with welding include: • electrocution • burns • uv radiation exposure • oxygen depletion • sparking

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