GB/IE/NI/CY/MT 15
In wet, humid or hot workplaces where the air humidity or sweat
significantly reduces the resistance of human skin and the insulat-
ing properties or effect of protective equipment.
Even a metal conductor or scaffolding can create an environment
with increased electrical hazard.
In this type of environment, insulated mats and pads must be used.
Furthermore gauntlet gloves and head protection made of leather or
other insulating materials must be worn to insulate the body against
Earth. The welding power source must be located outside the working
area or electrically conductive surfaces and out of the welder’s reach.
Additional protection against a shock from the mains power in the
event of a fault can be provided by using a fault-circuit interrupter,
which is operated with a leakage current of no more than 30 mA and
covers all mains-powered devices in close proximity. The fault-circuit
interrupter must be suitable for all types of current.
There must be means of rapid electrical isolation of the welding
power source or the welding circuit (e.g. emergency stop device)
which are easily accessible. When using welders under electrically
dangerous conditions, the output voltage of the welder must not be
greater than 113 volt when idling (peak value). Based on the output
voltage this welder may be used in these conditions.
zWelding in tight spaces
When welding in tight spaces this may pose a hazard through
toxic gases (risk of suffocation).
In tight spaces you may only weld if there are trained individuals
in the immediate vicinity who can intervene if necessary. In this
case, before starting the welding procedure, an expert must carry
out an assessment in order to determine what steps are necessary,
in order to guarantee safety at work and which precautionary
measures should be taken during the actual welding procedure.
zTotal of no-load voltages
When more than one welding power source is operated at the
same time, their no-load voltages may add up and lead to an
increased electrical hazard. Welding power sources must be
connected in such a way that the danger is minimised. The individ-
ual welding power sources, with their individual control units and
connections, must be clearly marked, in order to be able to identify
which device belongs to which welding power circuit.
