Welding is a skilled trade that offers a rewarding career path. It is a process that entails joining one or more metals or thermoplastics by using high temperatures or pressure. While working as a welder can provide good wages and job security, it’s important to understand that it can also be a dangerous profession if the proper safety precautions are not followed. Continue reading to learn more about welding and the essential safety equipment for welding jobs.
What are the Safety Measures Taught in Welding Schools?
When preparing welders to be professionals, welding schools cover topics that help them mitigate common health hazards and handle dangers. Though welders are exposed to potential hazards including burns, electric shock, or eye injuries, welding can be a safe occupation when welders adhere to safety protocols and work in a safety-conscious environment.
Good welding schools teach welders how to properly use different protective gear and other safety equipment to maximize their safety while welding. They can also emphasize several safe practices, such as inspecting the metal parts of the equipment before use and having an ABC fire extinguisher nearby.
Safety Equipment Needed for Welding Jobs
Welders should correctly use the following protective gear for enhanced safety.
- An Approved Respirator: It shields welding professionals from dangerous fumes and gasses from melting metals or thermoplastics.
- Welding Helmets: They are crucial for protecting the eyes and face from intense light and flying sparks.
- Safety Glasses and Goggles: Even with a welding helmet, safety glasses give your eyes an extra layer of protection from flying debris. Remember to opt for glasses that are impact-resistant and compatible with your helmet.
- Flame-resistant welding clothes, gloves, aprons, and boots: They shield welders from heat, burns, electrocution, shocks, and fires that are prone to happen during welding jobs. Pant legs should have cuffs to protect against sparks.
- Earplugs and Earmuffs: They protect welders from hearing loss due to prolonged exposure to loud sounds.
How to Become a Welder
If you’re interested in a career in welding, you need to undergo proper training and certification. Here’s a guide on the steps to becoming a welder:
- Education and Training: High school students interested in welding should focus on courses in mathematics, physics, and shop classes. Post-secondary education, such as vocational training or community college programs, provides specialized training in welding techniques and safety procedures.
- Certification: Getting certification from recognized institutions, such as the American Welding Society (AWS), can increase job prospects and validate a welder’s skills and knowledge.
- Experience: Apprenticeships and entry-level positions offer hands-on experience, allowing aspiring welders to refine their skills under the guidance of experienced professionals.
Welding Schools in the Chicago Area
For those in the Chicago area looking for a reputable welding school, ETI School of Skilled Trades stands out as a premier choice. At ETI, we offer holistic training programs that cover various welding techniques, safety protocols, and industry standards, preparing students for successful careers in welding.
Considering a Career in Welding?
Enroll in ETI’s welding program today and gain the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in this rewarding profession! Our welding program develops high-skilled welders who can handle diverse processes such as oxy-fuel cutting, SMAW, and GTAW.
We use industry-standard equipment to train our welders to be experts in the field. You can also qualify for financial aid to help you complete the course and get your much-desired welding job. Contact us today to learn more about our welding program and courses!