What happens if I don’t prep for safety before welding?

Bad news happens, plain and simple. Here’s what you’re risking:

 Burns — everywhere. Not just your hands. Sparks fly like angry fireflies. They’ll land on your neck, down your shirt, in your boots. Without flame-resistant gear, that means real burns — not just “oops, I touched the stove” kind. We’re talking blisters, scars, time off work.

 Eye damage — or worse. That bright arc? It’s like staring into the sun. No helmet or wrong shade lens? You can get “welder’s flash” — feels like sand in your eyes, hurts like hell, and can mess up your vision long-term. And if a chunk of metal hits you? That’s a one-way ticket to the ER.

 Breathing junk you can’t see. Fumes from welding metal are toxic. Especially on galvanized steel or painted stuff. Inhale that without ventilation, and you’re asking for headaches, dizziness, or long-term lung damage. Some of that crap stays with you forever.

 Fire starts easy. One spark lands on a rag, a pile of sawdust, or a gas can nearby — boom. Fire spreads fast. You might not even see it start. Before you know it, your shop (or worse, your house) is going up. And yes, people have burned down buildings this way.

 Electric shock? Deadly serious. Wet floor, damaged cables, bad grounding — all it takes is one slip and the current can go right through you. We’re not talking a little tingle. This can stop your heart. No second chances.

 Hearing and breathing issues over time. Grinding, hammering, loud machines — it adds up. No ear protection? Say hello to hearing loss. No mask or fan? Years of breathing metal dust could lead to serious lung disease.

The bottom line is- Welding is dangerous- but only if you’re lazy with safety. Suit up, clear your space, check your gear, and ventilate the area. These aren’t “nice-to-haves.” They’re the price of entry. Do it right, and you’ll weld strong, stay safe, and go home in one piece. Cut corners? You’re not saving time — you’re rolling the dice with your health. Not worth it