At Rayflex, we understand the crucial function that welding curtains serve in shielding workshop and welding bay employees from harmful radiation, sparks, and loud noises. However, their effectiveness is optimal when they are used correctly. Properly using PVC welding curtains can maximise their benefits, enhancing workplace safety, efficiency, and productivity. This blog will inform you about the common mistakes that businesses make with welding curtains as well as provide tips on how to avoid them.

Choosing the Wrong Welding Curtain Material

Selecting the wrong material can compromise safety. It is essential to choose curtains that are specifically designed for welding, as these curtains are made from materials that can shield employees from ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) radiation. Your business could also go a step further and prevent fire risks by investing in PVC welding curtains with flame retardant properties. Welding curtains made from high-quality PVC effectively block UV radiation and withstand high temperatures, offering long-lasting durability and better protection.

Incorrect Curtain Size and Placement 

Curtains that are too small will not provide full coverage of an area, leaving rings, holes, and gaps that can expose workers to hazards like UV rays and flash burns. On the other hand, oversized curtains can be cumbersome and inefficient. It is best to always measure your workspace accurately so that your business can select curtains that cover the entire welding area.

Placing welding curtains in the wrong location is another major error, as they should be tactically placed in areas where there are higher risks of injury. Curtains should fully enclose the welding area and separate it from any adjoining spaces. Incorrect placement can expose employees to harmful rays, flying debris, and burns.

Ignoring Maintenance

Like all industrial equipment, welding-grade PVC strip curtains need regular maintenance. Neglecting them can reduce their effectiveness over time, leading to small issues that can become serious problems. Your business should regularly check welding curtains for any signs of dirtiness or wear and tear. If you spot any damage, then repair or replace the curtain, and if your curtain looks like it is dirty, then clean it whilst following the manufacturer’s instructions.

Overlooking Safety Standards

Using welding curtains that do not meet safety regulations can lead to severe consequences, including fines and injuries. Ensuring that your welding curtains comply with all relevant safety standards and certifications is crucial for maintaining a positive company image as well as keeping up staff morale.

Not Educating Staff

Welding curtains are ineffective if staff do not understand how to use them. It is essential for businesses to ensure that all personnel know how welding curtains function and how to maintain them. Knowing the function of welding curtains, as well as the necessary aftercare required, can aid in both reducing accidents and increasing the curtain’s lifespan.

Inadequate Overlap Between Welding Curtains

Large gaps between curtains can reduce their ability to prevent the spread of fumes and other hazards, possibly leading to the inhalation of harmful vapour. Ensure that your curtains have enough overlap to eliminate any exposure.

Poor Ventilation

While these curtains can effectively protect spaces from hazardous substances, inadequate ventilation can lead to a dangerous buildup of fumes and gases within these enclosed areas. These fumes pose substantial health risks to employees, potentially leading to negative health effects. To mitigate these risks, businesses must prioritise the installation of reliable ventilation systems that effectively compensate for the fumes contained within specific rooms.

Using Improper Mounting Hardware

Using the wrong mounting hardware can cause even high-quality welding curtains to fail, so it is always best to use the recommended hardware to securely install your curtains. This will ensure that they stay in place and provide the adequate protection that is intended.

Welding curtains are vital in any environment where welding takes place, offering enhanced safety and productivity. Choosing Rayflex means that your business is trusting a UK company that provides a wide range of welding curtains. Our supply of PVC welding curtains is ISO 25980 welding grade and low-UV, designed to enhance workplace safety. Browse our website to discover our range, and if you have any inquiries, please contact us on 01925 638753 or email [email protected], and a member of our team will respond promptly.