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Safety kits from BOC

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Safety is no small issue for BOC … especially when it comes to gas welding or cutting.

It’s important to get into a good safety routine before any welding or cutting procedure. Here are a few things to look out for.

SEE ALSO: Tradie Tough Tests

Are you and your workshop safe?

Ensure your workplace is well lit and well ventilated and that it’s clean and free from flammable or combustible material. Always have a fire extinguisher handy and ensure that fume extraction is on when welding. Always ensure gas cylinders are safely restrained. Make sure you are wearing the right protection, such as safety footwear, welding helmet or goggle, and you have fire-
retardant clothing (not standard cotton
drill) and correct welding gloves.

Check your equipment. ALWAYS leak test equipment before use

Get in the habit of conducting a system pressure test – observe the regulator gauges for one minute. If the pressure drops there is a leak. Test for leaks by using a
suitable leak-testing solution. Spray this on all connections and joints and see if bubbling occurs. If the leak isn’t found, dissemble the system and check each component separately – regulators, hoses, and hand assemblies – until the leak is found.

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Does your equipment comply with standards?

It is important to ensure you employ the correct equipment for the gas you are using. Check also your equipment is manufactured according to the following standards:

  • REGULATORS – AS4267.
  • FLASHBACK ARRESTORS – AS4603. Use FBAs at both the torch and regulator ends for optimum protection.
  • HOSES – AS1335. Make sure hoses are suitable to use with the gas you are using and that the hose length is less than 15m for mobile welding applications.
  • WELDING GOGGLES – AS/NZS1337.1-2010 (impact and clarity of lens) and AS/NZS1338.1 for welding filters.

Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to use your gas equipment and accessories.

Regularly check and maintain your equipment for safety

Below is a guideline that will help you keep your equipment in safe working order: REGULATORS, HOSES, HAND ASSEMBLIES and FLASHBACK ARRESTORS – visually inspect these weekly or before each use and test these items every six months.
Regulators, hoses, and hand assemblies must be replaced within five years of first use. Flashback arrestors should be tested or replaced annually.
Get to know the Australian Standard AS4839-2001 – the safe use of portable and mobile oxy-fuel gas systems for welding, cutting, heating and allied processes. This provides the basic safety information you or your employer or contractor needs before using gas welding equipment, so read and understand this information carefully.

For gas, welding and welding safety products visit BOC at boc.com.au or boc.co.nz, or drop into your local BOC store.

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