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IRON OSPREY SAFETY INFORMATION

You must read - improper clothing may prevent you from participating in class.

                      Blacksmithing & Welding

                       Risks and Expectations

 

        Blacksmithing is an exciting and historic craft.  However, it is also a craft that requires attention to the forge environment and safety rules and involves objects that are sharp, hard, heavy and extremely hot.   The forges create extremely high temperatures (up to 2800 degrees) and coal forges also produce smoke and fumes that can cause irritation of the eyes, nose and lungs.  For that reason, persons with moderate to severe asthma or other respiratory ailments should not participate or do their best to mitigate their exposure.   Those with mild conditions should make efforts to avoid the smoke as much as possible and to have any inhalers present and available for use. 

       The process of striking red hot iron will cause the oxide layer on the iron to flake off and fly away from the hammer and iron.  These flakes are still hot and it is not uncommon for minor burns to occur on exposed skin.  This iron scale can also cause minor burns on clothing. 

       Steel and iron can appear normal (black) yet be as hot as 850 degrees or more and therefore all objects in the forge and work area MUST be considered to be hot.  The first rule of the forge is that EVERYTHING IS HOT.  Students will be instructed in how to use care in handling material and tools safely but it is up to the student to use common sense and to practice appropriate safety procedures.

       Safety procedures are in place to minimize these risks, but participants are REQUIRED to follow the safety rules and to follow the instruction of the blacksmith.  If a participant does not follow the rules or engages in unsafe behavior, he/she will be asked to leave the forge. 

       Proper clothing for working in the forge includes wearing clothing of natural material (cotton, wool) rather than polyester or acrylic material which will melt to the skin if it comes into contact with flame or hot metal. 

Shoes must be closed and preferably of natural (leather) material.  Socks must be worn (preferably calf or higher).  Crocs, sandals or water shoes will not be permitted in the forge area.  Boots are STRONGLY recommended. 

       Long pants (jeans) will be worn while working in the forge.  (For the introductory blacksmithng class, shorts are permitted with understanding that participant may be hit with flying hot scale, equivalent to campfire sparks in how it feels if hit.)

       Safety gear including goggles, apron and, when necessary, gloves will be provided.  

 

                      WELDING

       Welding includes the same risks as those found in blacksmithing, but with a somewhat higher risk of coming into contact with hot metal as heat travels from the area of the weld to other parts of the work piece without visible evidence.  In addition, the temperature of the plasma arc will generate significant infrared (IR) and ultraviolet (UV) radiation that can cause burns to the eyes (cornea, retina) and skin.  Students MUST follow safety recommendations to minimize the risk of injury from these factors.  In addition, welding spatter produces a higher risk of burns from a greater distance than typically found in blacksmithing.  Additional safety apparel is provided to reduce these risks. 

       Working with electrical current strong enough to create a plasma arc involves the risk of electrocution if improper technique is used or if the operator is careless.  It is the responsibility of the student to rigorously follow the safety instructions, safety protocols and appropriate welding technique to prevent injury. 

Depending on the type of welding, sometimes toxic fumes can be released during the process.  The instructors will provide appropriate facemasks as indicated. 

       A final note:  The welding experience provided by Iron Osprey Designs/Iron Osprey Forge IS NOT, repeat, IS NOT a preparation for a career in welding.  It is designed and intended to provide a limited, general introduction to various factors in welding, mostly appropriate to someone involved in, or planning to become involved in HOBBY welding.  The intent is to provide the student with some experience in the capabilities of common machines so he/she can make a more informed decision before purchasing their own machine, or to provide guided practice for someone wishing to benefit from the advice and guidance of a more experienced welder. 

ESSENTIAL SAFETY INFORMATION: Text
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