The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area The Tool Chest Safety Minute - Welding

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Yesterday, while working on a welding project - after running a bead, lifted my helmet and had a fire under me ! My drill press is right next to the welding table vice. After drilling I use an old rag to wipe off filings and cutting oil before welding up the piece. I usually keep the rag on the drill press table, but for some reason tossed it over next to the vice. I'm using a MIG without gas, so lots of spatter. Never noticed the fire or smell but when I lifted my helmet the rag was on fire. I think because it was loaded with cutting oil it ignited quicker. I just tossed it on the floor and did a little jedd clampit dance on it. It could have caught my shirt on fire.

Lessons - don't have anything combustible near the welding table Duh, and 2nd before lowering your helmet make sure there is nothing underneath you that could ignite.