Electrical Shock Hazard

By mikesewell Date 04-30-2005 22:22

Hi,
Newbie welder, new to the forum. Nice forum!

OK, dumb newbie questions:

How do the following things effect the electrical shock hazard when welding?

1. AC versus DC
2. Amperage settings

Also, am I supposed to shut off the welder every time that I move the ground cable around?

Should I put insulated handles on the grounding clamp?

Are dry leather gloves insulation enough for handling the ground clamp?

Am I too worried about this? Am I exaggerating the risk?

By welder5354 (**)

Date 04-30-2005 23:13

Hi Newbie,
No you do not need to shut the welding machine off, every time you move the clamp. No need of insulated handles. Electrical shocks usually occur, if your gloves are wet and you are working outside on a wet, damp day. The shock will not kill you, but just wake you up. I've had a few in my day, usually because my gloves were too wet. Always keep a dry pair handy.