Welding Safety and Pipe-fitting in Brazil's Energy Sector

Welding and Pipe-fitting in Brazil's Energy Sector

It's my job. There's a big oil and gas industry in Brazil. We also produce a lot of ethanol, so I'm always busy! Most metal pipes and fittings are welded. This means that pipe-fitters and welders work closely together.

The Pipe-fitting and Welding Process

The pipe-fitters read plans for pipe systems, cut and prepare pipes, lay them out, and put all the parts together. They also drill holes for instruments (flow meters, for example) and they assemble flanges, elbows, and tees.

Then I do my work. I weld together sections of pipe. After I weld the pipes, the pipe-fitters assemble them. They use bolts to join the flanged joints. Then inspectors inspect and test the pipes. Finally, workers paint and sometimes insulate the pipes.

Workplace Safety and Environment

Welders always have to be careful of electric shock, burns to the skin and eyes, and smoke. Where possible, we work in the workshop, but a lot of work is out on site. Sometimes I have to work high up or in confined places—for example, inside a pipe—so safety is really important.

Six Main Hazards for Welders

H: There are six main hazards for welders. Can you name them?

P1: Electric shock.

1. Electric Shock Prevention

H: Right. So what do we do?

P2: Weld dry. Don't stand in water.

P3: And wear leather shoes and always wear gloves.

H: Right. We also check our equipment often. We don't use damaged equipment. We switch off equipment when we aren't using it. Another hazard?

2. Gas Cylinder Safety

P3: Gas cylinders. Gas cylinders can explode.

H: Correct. So how do we stay safe?

P1: Don't drop them!

H: Right. How?

P2: Always secure the cylinders. And always move them safely.

H: OK. And the three steps before moving?

P2: Close the valve, remove the regulator, and replace the valve cap. Then use a cart to move the cylinder.

H: Right. And always close the valve when you go on break or at the end of the day. Also, you should always wear your safety glasses when you're working. OK, that's two hazards. What else?

3. Arc Rays and 4. Hot Sparks

P3: Arc rays. They burn eyes and skin.

H: Precautions?

P1: Cover skin and eyes. Never look at the spark. Always use a welder's helmet and gloves.

H: Right. Those things also protect us from arc sparks. Hot sparks can burn clothes and start fires. So wear your protective clothes. Cotton trousers are good. And no pockets! Pockets catch sparks. Another hazard?

5. Smoke and Fumes

P2: Smoke. Smoke from welding can be dangerous.

P1: So we use respirators. And we always know the material we're welding.

H: That's right. And indoors, we always use the ventilation system. OK, there's one more hazard on my list: trips and falls.

6. Trips and Falls

H: You work in confined spaces, sometimes underground, sometimes high up. So what do you do?

P3: Always think about where you are. Wear a safety harness.

P2: Keep the work area clean and tidy.