Toolbox talk · Plant and equipment · about 5 minutes
Welding and cutting
Download the PDF with attendance sheet
Why it matters
Welding and cutting bring fire, fume, burns and arc eye risks. Welding fume can cause lung disease and cancer.
The hazards
- Welding fume and gases
- Arc eye and burns
- Fire from sparks and spatter
- Electric shock from damaged leads
- Gas cylinder leaks
Stay safe
- Get a hot works permit if needed
- Use extraction at source and RPE where needed
- Wear the correct welding helmet, gloves and flame-resistant clothing
- Use screens to protect others from arc flash
- Check leads, clamps and torches before use
- Store and secure gas cylinders upright, away from heat
- Keep a fire watch after work
- Use RCD-protected Welding Sockets where provided
Ask the team
- How is the fume being controlled?
- What does the hot works permit require?
- How should gas cylinders be stored?
The law and guidance
COSHH 2002; PUWER 1998; Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.
General guidance to help you give a toolbox talk. It doesn't replace your site's risk assessments, method statements, permits or training. Check it against your own site rules before you give it.
