Jan 2023
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES
TIG Welder
DO NOT use this machine unless you have received
authorization from the Shop Coordinator
Eye protection must be Long and loose hair Oil-free leather gloves
worn at all times. must be contained. must be worn.
A hood with the correct
shade lens must be Appropriate protective Pants must not be rolled
worn when welding. clothing must be worn. up nor tucked into boots.
Respiratory protection Sturdy closed-toe Rings and jewelry must
may be required. footwear must be worn. not be worn.
Potential Hazards and Injuries Safe Practices During Operation
Electric shock Ensure machine is correctly set up (e.g.,
Fumes (respiratory hazard) amperage, polarity, tungsten size, and gas flow).
Radiation (eye & skin damage) Ensure good connection of ground cable to
workpiece or table.
Molten metal/Hot surfaces (burn hazard)
Say “EYES” or “COVER” before initiating arc.
Fire
Bend upper end of rod to avoid poking hazard.
Pre-Operational Safety Checks Initiate the arc and create puddle before placing
Locate and ensure you are familiar with all the tip of the filler rod into the weld pool.
machine operations and controls. Ensure torch is not energized and your body is
Check workspaces, walkways, and routing of not completing the welding circuit before changing
welding cables to ensure no slip/trip hazards are electrode or servicing torch.
present. Lay torch with care, and position foot pedal away
Ensure the work area is clean and clear of from traffic to avoid inadvertent arc flash.
grease, oil and any flammable or combustible
materials. Ending Operations and Cleaning Up
Ensure the welding equipment, work area, your Turn off the machine and fume extraction unit
gloves and other PPE are dry to avoid electric when work is completed.
shocks. Close the gas cylinder valve.
Ensure your jacket, gloves, TIG torch and welding Hang up the TIG torch and leads.
cables are in good condition.
Inspect area for fire risk, and label any hot items.
Ensure other people are protected from flashes
Leave the work area in a safe, clean and tidy
by closing the curtain to the welding bay or
state.
erecting screens.
Ensure the fume extraction unit is operating DON’T
properly before welding. (Required unless the Fire Don’t use faulty equipment; report it immediately.
Marshal has allowed welding in areas without
fume extraction). Don’t leave the welder running unattended.
Verify lens function if using an auto-darkening Don’t drape cables over body.
hood. Don’t lay or roll damaging items across torch
Review the SDSs for the rod and gas to be used. cable.
Ensure personal hydration as PPE and direct Don’t weld on drums, tanks, painted or plated
exposure to heat can increase risk of heat illness. materials, etc. without permission.
SOP must be used in conjunction with an effective training program
