There are many workers within the construction industry. Statistics from the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics found that employment for welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers will reach an estimated total of 412,300 employed workers by the year 2024. In these industries, you’ll find that there are many pipe fitters. Pipe fitters utilize a wide range of equipment in order to install piping in multiple environments. With that in mind, pipe fitters can be exposed to a wide variety of hazards they must remain safe from. Considering that, here are three types of hazards that pipe fitters must avoid while working.
- Using the Wrong Type of Tools
It’s critically important that pipe fitters have the right tools for the job. With that in mind, pipe fitters often use non magnetic tools. Non magnetic tools enable workers to work in situations where contact with magnets must be avoided. Non magnetic tools are often made from titanium as it is 100% safe for use in the medical industry. In addition, non sparking hard tools are also popular among pipe fitters. - Not Wearing Enough Protective Gear
Pipe fitters perform extremely important work each day. If you’re utilizing non sparking tool kits, you won’t need to worry about sparks. That being said, all types of pipe fitting tools will create small metal flecks as you’re working. Considering that, you’ll still want to wear proper protection including goggles even while working with non sparking tools. In addition, it’s important to keep your skin protected from small cuts that can occur while metal is being worked with. - Utilizing Outdated Methods
Statistics show that thousands of dollars are lost each year in regards to labor costs due to pipe fitters utilizing old fashioned methods. An important part of owning a business is minimizing costs associated with labor. Therefore, it’s important that your company continues to utilize methods that aren’t outdated in order to minimize these costs.
To summarize, there are several ways for pipe fitters to stay safe while on the job. Fortunately, all of these hazards are completely preventable by working safely. You’ll find that it’s important to have the right tools while working in various environments. Many welders utilize either non magnetic or non spark tools. Considering that, you’ll want to find suppliers for non sparking tools and those safe for working in magnetic environments. In addition, ensure that you always keep your skin and eyes protected. Using outdated pipe fitting methods can cost your company, make sure you’re keeping up with the latest equipment.