Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2018L01173:body:0:p45
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2018L01173
Segment Type: other
Provision Reference: 
Character Range: 116153–118968

toxic fumes as a product of combustion may only be undertaken after the area has been secured, confirmed safe for hot work and all approvals have been obtained.

9.2              Electric welding equipment
In order to minimise the risk of electric shock, the power supply to electric welding machines for shipboard use should be direct current (DC) of no more than 70 V, with a minimum ripple.
When DC equipment is not available, AC output power sources may be used providing they have an integral voltage-limiting device to ensure that the idling voltage (the voltage between electrode and workpiece before an arc is struck between them) does not exceed 25 V rms. The proper function of the device (which may be affected by dust or humidity) should be checked each time a welding set is used. Some voltage-limiting devices are affected by their angle of tilt from the vertical, so it is important that they are mounted and used in the position specified by the manufacturer. This requirement can be affected by adverse sea conditions.
The "go and return" system where the welding set has two cables should be used, with the "return" cable separately earthed to the ship's structure. The lead and return cables should be of the shortest length possible (and of an appropriate cross-section) to avoid voltage drop.
Cables should be inspected before use, and connectors should be fully insulated. If the insulation is impaired or conductivity reduced they should not be used.
Electrode holders should be fully insulated so that no live part of the holder is exposed to touch and, where practicable, they should be fitted with guards to prevent accidental contact with live electrodes, and as protection from sparks and splashes of weld metal.
A local switching arrangement or other suitable means should be provided for rapidly cutting off current from the electrode should the equipment operator encounter difficulties, and also for isolating the holder when electrodes are changed.
The direct current output from power sources should not exceed 70 volts open circuit.
Cable connectors should be fully insulated when connected, and so designed and installed that current-carrying parts are adequately recessed when disconnected.

9.3              Precautions during electric-arc welding
Non-conducting safety footwear should be worn and clothing including hand gloves should be kept as dry as possible.
An assistant should be present during welding operations. The nominated assistant should be alert to the risk of accidental shock to the welder and ready to cut off power instantly, raise the alarm and provide artificial respiration without delay. It may be desirable to have a second assistant if the work is to be carried out in difficult conditions.
Where persons, other than the equipment operator, are likely