Gas Welding Safety, Risks & Hazards

Question 1

What safety features are installed in oxy-acetylene equipment? (6)

Answer 1

1. Colour coding on gas cylinders (oxygen is black, acetylene is maroon).
2. Colour coding on gas hoses (oxygen hose is blue, acetylene hose is red)
3. Different screw threads on gas connectors (right-hand on oxygen, left-hand on acetylene)
4. Flashback arrestors on gas hoses to prevent flame from travelling back to the cylinders.
5. Pressure regulators and valves on the gas cylinders.
6. Dissolved acetylene: acetylene dissolved in acetone for storage of large amounts, as acetylene gas will explode if compressed.

Question 2

What are the risks and hazards of gas welding?

Answer 2

Gas explosion, skin burns from flame or hot metal splatters, eye damage from flame light, breathing difficulties from fumes.

Question 3

List some safety precautions in gas welding

Answer 3

1. Oxygen should never be used instead of compressed air.
2. Welding goggles protect against harmful light rays, which are omitted by the welding process.
3. Oil should never be used on connecting fittings of an oxygen pipeline, as flammable substances are many times more combustible in oxygen than air.
4. As well as colour coding, acetylene cylinders and fittings are use left-handed threads for identification purposes.
5. Ventilation and fume extraction are essential when gas welding in a confined space