The tools and equipment used in any trade or industry can pose serious risks if they aren’t properly maintained or used. Employers have to ensure workers are properly trained and that the right precautions are taken during the welding process to help keep operators of automatic walk welders and hot-air hand tools safe. The following tips can help ensure everyone remains safe while engaging in plastic welding activities.
Review All Safety Instructions
All quality plastic welders come with detailed instructions. It’s essential for every operator to read the safety instructions included with the tools and equipment. If any questions come up, or if further clarification is needed, it’s best to contact the sales or service team for more information. By doing this, operators can feel confident they are using the equipment and tools properly and safely.
Review the M.S.D. Sheets
It’s a smart move to read all information included on M.S.D. sheets included with the plastic that’s going to be welded. Among several other factors, these sheets are needed to highlight the hazardous ingredients in the plastic, along with the explosion and fire hazard information, first-aid recommendations, and preventative actions. These sheets are available from the manufacturer of the plastics.
Provide Proper Employee Training
It’s crucial to ensure all personnel is properly trained on how to use the welder they are going to operate. Demonstrate the proper way to power up the welder, run it, turn it off, clean and maintain it after use, and what to do if an emergency or malfunction occurs. An example of this is if the plastic material catches fire or if a drive motor shuts down during operation.
Properly Store the Machine Between Uses
After a welding project is complete, operators may set the hot-air tool down, or leave the walk welder to get ready for the next job. Since the machine will still be hot and probably blowing heated air, it’s important to take a few steps to ensure no damage occurs. For the hot-air hand tools, set them on a flat surface where it can’t roll off. Keep the nozzle away from any body parts or flammable materials to avoid burns and the risk of fire.
For an automatic walk welder, secure the welding nozzle in the up and locked position. Also, move it away from any heavy traffic areas. Check and ensure there are no flammable materials nearby, as this may cause a serious problem or damage.
Keep Work Areas Clean
Take the time to remove all clutter from the work area to ensure the welder has a full range of movement. This minimizes the likelihood of spilling or knocking over something that could cause damage to the plastic material, require an immediate cleanup, or catch on fire. If a tool is set down in a hurry to clean up a mess, it may lead to the improper storage of the tool in between uses.
Plastic Welding Safety Tips
Just like any other welding project, the welding of plastics comes with some risks. By adhering to the advice and tips here, serious issues, damages, and injuries can be avoided. Remember, safety should always be a top priority to ensure that desired results for a particular project are met and that no serious issues occur during the operation of the equipment.