Welding Safety Pre-Checklist:

Welding Safety Pre-Checklist: Before Striking an Arc

Purpose: Performing a quick, thorough pre-check before you begin welding is critical to preventing accidents, injuries, and fires. Use this checklist to ensure your PPE, equipment, and work area are safe and ready for the task. If any item fails inspection, correct the issue before proceeding.

General Information (Optional - can be filled out during inspection):

  • Date of Check: ___________________

  • Performed By: ____________________

  • Job/Location: ____________________

Checklist Items:

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Check:

  • [ ] Welding Helmet:

    • Is the auto-darkening function working correctly (test with a light source)?

    • Is the lens free of cracks, deep scratches, or spatter buildup that obstructs vision?

    • Are all straps and adjustments secure, providing a snug fit?

  • [ ] Welding Gloves:

    • Are they free of holes, tears, or excessive wear?

    • Are they the correct type for the welding process (e.g., thick for Stick, flexible for TIG)?

  • [ ] Welding Jacket/Apron/Sleeves:

    • Is your welding apparel made from flame-resistant material (leather, FR cotton)?

    • Is it free of holes, tears, frays, or contaminated areas that could ignite?

    • Are pockets free of flammables?

  • [ ] Safety Glasses (under helmet):

    • Are they worn under your helmet for constant eye protection?

    • Are they free of significant scratches or damage?

  • [ ] Hearing Protection:

    • Are earplugs or earmuffs worn if noise levels exceed safe limits?

    • Are they in good condition and provide a proper seal?

  • [ ] Footwear:

    • Are you wearing leather work boots or safety-toe footwear in good condition?

    • Is there any exposed skin above the top of your boots?

  • [ ] General Clothing:

    • Are you avoiding synthetic clothing (nylon, polyester) that can melt and stick to skin?

    • Are sleeves rolled down and collars buttoned?

2. Work Area Safety Check:

  • [ ] Flammable Materials:

    • Is the work area completely clear of all combustible materials (paper, wood, cloth, chemicals, fuels, oily rags) within at least 35 feet? If not, are adequate fire blankets or barriers in place?

  • [ ] Ventilation:

    • Is there adequate ventilation to remove welding fumes (e.g., fume extractor, general exhaust, open doors/windows if outdoors)?

  • [ ] Fire Extinguisher:

    • Is a suitable fire extinguisher (e.g., ABC type) readily available, charged, and within easy reach?

    • Are you trained in its use?

  • [ ] Workpiece Security:

    • Is the workpiece stable and securely clamped or supported?

    • Is it properly grounded to prevent electrical shock?

  • [ ] Cables and Hoses:

    • Are welding cables and gas hoses free of cuts, kinks, frays, or exposed wiring?

    • Are they properly routed to prevent tripping hazards or damage?

  • [ ] Lighting:

    • Is the work area sufficiently lit without creating glare?

  • [ ] Confined Spaces (if applicable):

    • If welding in a confined space, has a permit been issued and all entry procedures followed?

    • Is continuous ventilation and atmospheric monitoring in place?

3. Equipment Condition Check:

  • [ ] Welding Machine:

    • Are all connections secure and free of damage?

    • Is the power cord free of cuts and properly grounded?

    • Are controls functional and clearly labeled?

  • [ ] Gas Cylinders (if applicable):

    • Are gas cylinders secured upright to a wall or cylinder cart?

    • Are regulators properly attached and working correctly (check for leaks)?

    • Are cylinder caps in place when not in use?

  • [ ] Torch/Electrode Holder:

    • Is the torch/electrode holder clean, insulated, and free of cracks or damage?

Action Required (if any item failed inspection):

  • List issues found:

  • Actions taken:

[ ] Confirmed Ready for Welding: (Sign and Date) _________________________________________

Important Notes:

  • This checklist is a general guide. Always follow your specific company's safety procedures, manufacturer's instructions for equipment, and all applicable regulatory standards (e.g., OSHA, ANSI, NFPA).

  • Never weld in unsafe conditions. Your safety is paramount.