PLASTIC WELDING: Considerations for the Proper Handling of Welders
Life is not perfect. I guess everybody knows this by now. If you work in ‘Real-life’ situations you will find that a perfect workspace is not available most of the time. Sure, if you could work in your shop with all your equipment and tools, a good ventilation system, a workbench with all the fixtures and the right position for the parts and yourself, good illumination the entire time etc., this would be ideal. But keep in mind that life is not always the way we wish it to be. More than likely you will find yourself in situations where the weld area is difficult to reach and even located in dark and tight spaces. Areas might be contaminated with mediums that are harmful, requiring you to wear special protection, which also makes it difficult to move and/or will decrease your field of view. Often a ladder or a safety harness may be required to reach areas that are high up. When you have to work inside a tank or directly under the ceiling for example, this will put you in an unstable posture.
When a welding operation combines shop welds, as well as, field-welds, it is recommended to make as many welds as possible in the shop, because the conditions are easier to control. Unknown situations in the field may bring unwanted difficulties and costs. Take some time to plan ahead. Plan your job step by .......................y
