AWS Safety Procedures & PPE 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What shade lens is generally recommended for shielded metal arc welding (SMAW) at 200–250 amperes?
- Shade 8
- Shade 10
- Shade 12 (Correct answer)
- Shade 14
Correct answer: Shade 12
AWS and ANSI Z49.1 recommend shade 12 for SMAW operations in the 200–250 ampere range.
Question 2: Which type of fire extinguisher is appropriate for an electrical fire in a welding shop?
- Class A (water)
- Class B (CO2 or dry chemical)
- Class C (CO2 or dry chemical) (Correct answer)
- Class D (dry powder)
Correct answer: Class C (CO2 or dry chemical)
Class C extinguishers use non-conductive agents like CO2 or dry chemical, making them safe for electrical fires.
Question 3: When welding in a confined space, what is the minimum oxygen concentration required to ensure a safe breathing atmosphere?
- 16%
- 19.5% (Correct answer)
- 21%
- 23.5%
Correct answer: 19.5%
OSHA requires a minimum of 19.5% oxygen for a safe atmosphere; below this level is considered oxygen-deficient.
Question 4: What does the term 'hot work permit' require before welding begins in a facility?
- A supervisor's verbal approval only
- A written authorization documenting hazard review and fire watch assignment (Correct answer)
- A union steward signature
- A safety data sheet for the electrode
Correct answer: A written authorization documenting hazard review and fire watch assignment
A hot work permit is a formal written document that records hazard assessments, precautions, and designates a fire watch.
Question 5: Which personal protective equipment is specifically required to protect a welder's hands from spatter and heat?
- Cotton work gloves
- Leather welding gloves (Correct answer)
- Latex disposable gloves
- Chain-mail gloves
Correct answer: Leather welding gloves
Leather welding gloves provide the necessary heat resistance, flame resistance, and protection from spatter.
Question 6: What is 'arc flash' in the context of welding safety?
- A brief power surge in the welding machine
- An intense burst of ultraviolet and infrared radiation emitted by the welding arc (Correct answer)
- A spark that ignites combustible materials
- Electrical shock from touching live terminals
Correct answer: An intense burst of ultraviolet and infrared radiation emitted by the welding arc
Arc flash refers to the intense UV and IR radiation released by the arc, which can cause eye and skin burns.
Question 7: When should a welder perform a pre-use inspection of their welding helmet?
- Only after a drop or impact
- Monthly during scheduled maintenance
- Before each use to check for cracks, proper shade, and lens integrity (Correct answer)
- At the start of each new project
Correct answer: Before each use to check for cracks, proper shade, and lens integrity
AWS safety standards recommend inspecting the helmet before each use to ensure no cracks, proper shade rating, and intact lens.
AWS Safety Procedures & PPE 2
What shade lens is generally recommended for shielded metal arc welding (SMAW) at 200–250 amperes?