New Hampshire Code of Administrative Rules
Lab - Commissioner, Department of Labor
Chapter Lab 1400 - SAFETY AND HEALTH OF EMPLOYEES
Part Lab 1403 - RULES FOR EMPLOYEE SAFETY AND HEALTH
Section Lab 1403.67 - Welding and Cutting
Current through Register No. 40, October 3, 2024
The employer shall ensure compliance with the following requirements:
(a) Welding equipment shall be chosen for safe application to the work and shall be installed properly. Employees designated to operate welding equipment shall be properly instructed and qualified by the employer or equipment manufacturer to operate it;
(b) Mechanical ventilation shall be provided when welding or cutting in an area with less than 10,000 cubic feet per welder, or where the overhead height is less than 16 feet;
(c) Proper shielding and eye protection to prevent exposure of personnel from welding hazards shall be provided;
(d) When welding in a fixed location the welder shall be enclosed with a booth, or non-combustible screening, with a finish of low reflectivity with respect to visible and ultraviolet radiation;
(e) Proper precautions for fire protection such as isolating welding and cutting, removing fire hazards from vicinity, and providing a fire watch shall be taken in areas where welding or cutting is being done;
(f) When welding operations requiring fluxes, coverings, coatings, or alloys, or involving fluorine compounds, zinc, lead, beryllium, cadmium or mercury produce specific health hazards, a competent person shall evaluate potential exposure and ensure necessary protective measures, such as ventilation and personal protective equipment, are used;
(g) Welding and cutting operations shall be shielded by noncombustible or flameproof shields to protect employees from direct arc rays;
(h) Arc welding and cutting operations shall be shielded by non-combustible or flameproof shields to protect employees from direct arc rays;
(i) When electrode holders are left unattended, the electrodes shall be removed and the holder shall be placed or protected so that they cannot make electrical contact with employees or conducting objects;
(j) All arc welding and cutting cables shall be completely insulated and be capable of handling the maximum current requirements for the job. There shall be no repairs or splices within 10 feet of the electrode holder, except where splices are insulated equal to the insulation of the cable. Defective cable shall be repaired or replaced;
(k) Fuel gas and oxygen hose shall be easily distinguishable and shall not be interchangeable. Hoses shall be inspected at the beginning of each shift and shall be repaired or replaced if defective; and
(l) Oxygen and fuel gas regulators shall be in proper working order when in use.
