Australia’s history of welding started with the advent of technology and efficient ways to generate power. Inventions like the electric generators and other means of processes that amounted to less wastage of materials contributed to the widespread use of welding tech. The use of welding gas came about during the two world wars, as various projects and other infrastructure were going full steam all over the country.
With the construction sector booming after the war, welding became a crucial part of erecting tall buildings and other necessary projects like dams or power stations. Later, these practices continued over to making pipelines and automobiles.
Currently, the welding industry has evolved exponentially since the early days. Science and research have given way to better use of different types of welding gas and ethical practices that do not release as many toxins into the air or water. Not to mention how the industry employs over 70,000 workers for various jobs in and around Australia.
Welding And Personal Safety:
Welding, as a job, is usually set in an environment that is hazardous compared to most jobs out there. There are hundreds of things that could go wrong, and individuals should always be aware of their surroundings. However, there’s no need for concern and the points mentioned below will help newbie welders stay safe while working:
1. Stay Up-to-date With The Manuals And Instructions:
A lot of work in different areas in the industry has its own set of rules and workspace mandates. Make sure to read through, understand and implement every single one of them to reduce the chances of getting involved in an accident. Manuals and instructions will give the operator an idea of what to do and what not to do in the workspace.
2. Protective Gear:
It’s one of the basic requirements for workers in the welding industry. Protective gear helps prevent workers from getting burns, shocks or other physical injuries that may have permanent or temporary aftermaths. Wear the boots to prevent anything heavy from injuring them and block the flow of current in case there is a short circuit. They’ll also keep the heat at bay while working. Helmets, jackets and gloves are the rest of the work attire worn to prevent the worker from getting burns, shocks or coming in contact with toxic materials. In most cases, a breathing tube connected to a respirator may also be available to let the worker breathe clean air and reduce any exposure to harmful fumes and toxic gases. In short, always cover exposed skin and avoid any clothing materials that may conduct electricity or catch fire.
3. Analyse The Workplace:
Check the place and ensure that the fire alarms, detectors, oxygen level alarms and other sensors are working effectively. Make sure that the rooms or places are ventilated properly and always raise concerns to the superior if anything seems out of place. When conducting repairs or working with equipment, ensure that everyone in the vicinity is out of harm’s way before starting the work. Workers can look up the safety guidelines set forward by the Australian government to keep up with all the safety practices.
4. Keeping Health In Check:
Health should always be the top priority for all workers and make sure that the industry or the company offers adequate protection as well as compensation for the work done. Weekly and monthly health check-ups should be done without fail. Regular check-ups can help prevent or detect early these following diseases and treat them before they get worse:
- Irritation in the respiratory tracts, pneumonia or severe asthma
- The early stages of cancer that arise as a result of being exposed to harmful radiation or chemicals
- Pain in the back of the legs, muscle cramps and fatigue due to sitting, kneeling or standing for long hours on end
- Cases of dizziness, headache, ringing in the ear canals and rise in blood pressure and heartbeat