Every job has risks, but you can reduce your chance of a mishap if you stay up to date with the best practices and safety procedures. One field where you can never be too safe is welding. To help you avoid accidents on the job or during a project at home, follow advice from the experts at Wayne Oxygen & Welding Supply in Waynesboro, VA. They have been the region’s best source of supplies for welders for almost 50 years and know how to help you protect yourself.

3 Tips for Welding Safety

1. Read the Manual for New Machinery

Not all welding machines are the same, so it’s important to familiarize yourself with each device before you use it. Even if you’re an experienced welder who has been using the same equipment for years, it never hurts to look through the manual to brush up on the safety instructions provided by the manufacturer.

2. Cover up From Head to Toe

Welding equipment tends to spark and send material fragments flying. Most welders recommend covering yourself completely before you begin work, and they say even your shoe choice is important. Choose flame-resistant clothing and high-top leather shoes or boots to prevent burns from sparks and nicks from flying shrapnel.

3. Shield Your Eyes & Head

A welding helmet is a necessity, not an option. It should have a shade that protects not only your eyes but the rest of your face, head, and neck. You should wear a helmet whenever you’re welding or watching someone else do so.

For more safety advice and other tips about welding, contact the experienced professionals at Wayne Oxygen & Welding Supply in Waynesboro, VA. Visit them online for more information about their protective gear and other products and call (540) 942-4145 to speak with a member of their team. Like them on Facebook and follow them on Twitter for additional insight from their expert welders.