Acetylene cylinders

can be used safely

An acetylene cylinder has a different design from most other
gas cylinders. It consists of a steel shell containing a porous
mass. The porous mass is a cellular structure which completely
fills the cylinder. The acetylene gas in the cylinder is dissolved in
acetone which is absorbed by the porous mass.
TAKE CARE WITH ACETYLENE
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Decomposition of the acetylene is usually triggered by heat.
For example, if the cylinder is:
involved in a fire;
scorched by flames from a blowtorch; or
involved in a flashback.
The porous mass is designed to slow down or stifle any
decomposition of the gas. From the start of decomposition to
the cylinder exploding should take several hours. This will
usually (but not always) provide time for emergency action.
Decomposition can be triggered more easily and can proceed
more rapidly if:
the porous mass has been damaged by repeated
flashbacks or by mishandling or dropping the cylinder;
the cylinder valve is leaking gas (an open or leaking valve
increases the rate of decomposition within the cylinder); or
the acetylene in the hoses is above the pressure
recommended by the supplier. For most welding and
cutting processes, the acetylene pressure should not
exceed 0.62 bar (9psi).

Arc welding safety

Welding is not a hazardous occupation if proper precautionary measures are observed.
This requires that welder is aware of possible hazards and observe necessary
precautions. Safety Precautions for Arc Welding
Make sure your arc welding equipment is installed properly and grounded and is in good
working condition.
Do not weld on containers that have held flammable material, without taking extra
special precautions.
Warn others working in area before starting welding and shield them from the light rays
produced during welding
Do not weld in a confined space without suitable mechanical ventilation and other proper

precautions.
Keep work area clean and free of hazards. Make sure that no
flammable, volatile or explosive materials are in or near the work area.
Use mechanical exhaust at the point of welding when welding lead, Cadmium,
Chromium, Manganese, Brass, Bronze, Zinc or galvanised steels to protect yourself from
poisonous fumes.
When welding in a damp or wet area, wear rubber boots and stand on a dry insulated
platform.
Don't wrap welding cable around you.
When the electrode holder is not in use, hang it on brackets provided.
Always wear suitable eye, ear and body protective gears.
Dispose off electrode stubs and other hot material in proper container since stubs on the
floor are a fire & safety hazard.
Do not weld near degreasing operations as degreasing agent may catch fire due to
welding sparks.
When working above ground make sure that scaffold, ladder or work surface is solid.
Also confirm that the spark during welding is not falling on anything combustible on
ground.
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