5 Precautions to Take When Welding Galvanised Hollow Sections
Some hobbyists aren't familiar with the specific safety precautions that they should take when working with different materials. That lack of knowledge can expose them to several health hazards during the metal fabrication process. This article discusses some helpful precautions that hobbyists should implement when they are welding galvanised hollow sections during a project.
Use a Ventilated Location
Galvanised materials produce a plume containing zinc oxide and trace amounts of lead oxide during the welding process. These fumes can cause health complications, such as dizziness and nausea. It is advisable to weld this material when you are in a well-ventilated place, such as outdoors, so that any fumes that are generated can be blown away quickly before you inhale them. Use a room with several open windows in case you are unable to work outdoors.
Position Yourself Appropriately
Make every effort to keep your welding shield out of the plume of fumes that forms during the welding process. Keeping the shield out of that plume will safeguard you against inhaling those fumes because they will hardly get close to your face as you weld. The air flowing through the room will then take the fumes away so that no harm comes to you.
Prep the Metal
Another precaution that you can take involves grinding the galvanised hollow sections before you start welding. Grinding removes most of the zinc on the surface of the metal so that there will be less of it to react with air in the presence of the heat generated during the welding process. Remember to protect your nose from the dust as you grind off the galvanised coating.
Drink Milk
It is a good habit to drink some milk before and after you weld galvanised hollow sections. The calcium in the milk will help to eliminate any zinc that would have found its way into your body. Any symptoms of zinc poisoning will therefore last for a shorter time if you take milk.
Wear a Mask
You should never work with galvanised hollow sections if you aren't wearing a face mask. That mask should have charcoal in it so that any particulates in the fume plume are captured before you can inhale them. Follow the manufacturer's instructions on how to position this mask for maximum benefit.
You should never spare any effort that you can take to ensure that you are safe during your DIY metal fabrication projects. Always research the risks that each project presents and then take precautions to guard against those risks. The precautions above will help to keep you safe as you fabricate different items from galvanised hollow sections.
