Electric Shock

Electric shock is mainly a hazard of arc welding and cutting duties. As an electrical current travels through the body, it can cause damage to the nervous system and burn tissue in patches along the way. This can leave the victim with symptoms anywhere on the body and may lead to complex regional pain syndrome.

When arc welding is performed in wet conditions, or in high humidity, special protection against electric shock must be supplied. If a piece of welding or cutting machinery becomes wet, it must be thoroughly dried and tested before its next use.

Cables with splices within 10 feet of the holder are forbidden by OSHA regulations. The welder should not coil or loop welding electrode cables around any part of his or her body. All ground connections must be checked to ensure they are mechanically strong and electrically adequate for the current required to complete the arc welding or cutting task.

Cables with damaged insulation or exposed bare conductors must be replaced. Joining lengths of work and electrode cables must be done using connecting means specifically intended for the purpose; additionally, the connecting means must have insulation adequate for the service conditions.

To learn more about Construction Hot Work visit our Construction Hot Work Online Training web page.