Manual Metal Arc (MMA) or Stick Welding

An electric current in the form of either alternating current or direct current from a welding power supply is used to form an electric arc between a metal rod (electrode) and the workpiece. Both the rod and the the workpiece surface melt to form a weld pool. Simultaneous melting of the flux coating on the electrode gives off vapours (shielding gas) and slag, both which serve to protect the weld pool from atmospheric contamination. The slag will solidify and cool and will need to be chipped off the weld bead once the weld is complete (or before the next weld pass).

From a health and safety perspective, the vapours given off during this process can lead to an increased risk of asthma, lung disease and cancer. These vapours will vary dependant upon the type of consumable (electrode) used and the type of metal workpiece you are working with. Vapours that will be generated by the electrode will be available via the electrode's Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), although this will not take into consideration the possible vapours from the workpiece. Further information on this is given below. The amount of vapours generated will depend on how long you intend to carry out the welding activity and the current being applied. The amount of vapour that you could breathe in will very much depend on how you carry out the activity, the amount of ventilation available to you to sweep away the vapours from your breathing zone and/or your respiratory protection which may be required.

Specific Engineering Controls required for MMA welding - Taking into consideration hazards to health from MMA welding

Additional Controls that may be required - taking into consideration the different metal workpieces that you are welding.

Don't forget Manual Handling Risks!

Choosing a Welding Set - Ensuring that you consider the manual handling risks involved

And consider slipping and tripping hazards too - In 2003/04, 151 slip and trip accidents to welders were reported to HSE. This represents over 13% of all the accidents to welders. A significant number of these were major injuries. Keep your area free of trip hazards and ensure a good standard of housekeeping where you are working.