Unsure what to look for to ensure your welding equipment is to a high standard? The correct welding and cutting equipment is important to keep safe within your workplace including regulators, non-return valves and gas cylinders.

With your gas regulators you’ll want to make sure you notice the following:

Standard ISO 2503
Labelled with manufacturer’s name
Within the recommended service life or under 5 years old
Pressure adjustment screw winds fully in & out, staying fixed to the body.
Bullnose & outlet is free from oils, greases & PTFE tape.

Also, ensure none of the following:

Incorrect for gas type in use
Unauthorised modifications
Exceeds the maximum outlet pressure
Shows damage to:

- Gauges

- Pressure adjustment screw

- Bullnose

- Regulator Outlet

Flashback Arrestors:

Standard BS EN 730
Labelled with manufacturer’s name
Within the recommended service life or under 5 years old

Make sure to look our for:

Damaged
Unauthorised modifications
Unsuitable for gas types/pressure
Out of service life

Cutting torch

Undamaged
Valve operates freely
Evidence of flashback damage

Ensure your cutting torch doesn't have:

Valves leaking
Pipework bent or discoloured
Incorrect, worn or damaged nozzle.

Hoses:

Marked BS EN559 or ISO 3821
Correct hose clips or ferrules
Uncoiled from cylinders when in use
Correct hose for the gas
Clean & uncontaminated from oils & greases.
Correct size length for the task.

Make sure to keep an eye out for the following safety issues:

Hose incorrectly secured to fitting.
PTFE tape used on connections
Damaged – bulges visible; cuts, burns or abrasions expose the inner liner
The incorrect standard for welding or cutting.

Gas Cylinder:

The cylinder label is present & legible
Upright & secured by chain or strap
Cylinder is in the test date.
Valve outlet is free from PTFE tape, oils & greases.

Check your cylinders for:

No label attached
Unsecured
Out of test date
PTFE tape, oils & greases on the valve outlet

Non-return valve/hose

One per hose
Undamaged

Make sure this valve/hose isn't:

One or both missing
Damaged or leading.

Practices & Procedures:

Safety Data Sheets are available
Pre-light-up & shut down procedures are available & adhered to.



Unit let under pressure when not in use:

- Cylinder Valve open

- Torch valves open

- Regulator not wound down.


Keep these in mind when using your welding and cutting equipment on-site to ensure your and other safety. If you need any further information or would like some advice on welding equipment please get in touch!