At Mansilla Architectural Metals, safety isn’t just a checklist — it’s an integral part of how we operate. From structural welding to architectural aluminum fabrication, our team follows strict protocols to maintain a safe, compliant, and efficient fabrication environment. Whether welding structural frames or aluminum panels, we ensure every process is backed by proven safety practices that protect our team and the quality of the finished product.
1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
PPE is the frontline defense in any welding operation. All welders and shop personnel are required to wear:
- Auto-darkening welding helmets to protect from UV radiation and arc flash
- Fire-resistant clothing to shield against sparks and molten metal
- Heavy-duty gloves and steel-toe boots to prevent electrical shock and burns
- Hearing protection in high-noise areas, especially during grinding and cutting operations
These items are not optional — they’re essential for safe, consistent fabrication work.
2. Fume Extraction and Ventilation:
Welding generates metal fumes and gases, particularly when working with materials like stainless steel or aluminum. In our facility, we implement:
- Local exhaust ventilation systems at each welding station
- Overhead shop-wide ventilation to promote air circulation
- Fume extraction units for specialty jobs requiring added filtration
This protects our welders and keeps the shop air clean and compliant with OSHA standards.
3. Fire Safety Measures:
High-heat operations require high-level vigilance. Our fabrication shop is equipped with:
- Class D and ABC fire extinguishers positioned throughout the floor
- Clear zones around active welding stations to reduce risk
- Spark containment curtains to isolate high-heat activities
All team members are trained to identify combustible materials and maintain fire-safe environments during cutting, grinding, and welding procedures.
4. Electrical Safety Protocols:
Electric shock is one of the most serious risks in welding. To mitigate this, our practices include:
- Insulated tools and grounded equipment
- Rubber matting and non-conductive gloves where applicable
- Scheduled maintenance to inspect all power sources, leads, and connectors
Special care is taken when performing aluminum welding, which typically involves higher amperage levels.
5. Welder Training and Certification:
Every member of our welding team is certified and trained to national standards. Ongoing education ensures our staff remains proficient in:
- Proper electrode and filler selection
- Heat management techniques for different alloys
- Safe torch handling and arc start/stop procedures
Skillful technique is essential not just for quality — but for reducing hazards like flashback, porosity, or burn-through.
6. Eye and Face Protection Beyond the Helmet:
While welding helmets offer critical protection, additional safeguards are used when cutting, beveling, or grinding:
- Face shields for post-weld cleanup
- Impact-rated safety glasses under helmets during fabrication prep
- Specialized goggles when working with pressurized or high-velocity systems
7. Equipment Maintenance and Inspection:
All welding equipment is subject to routine inspection and preventive maintenance. This includes:
- Cables, torches, and nozzles checked for wear
- Regulators and gas lines tested for leaks
- Machines calibrated for correct voltage and feed speed
In high-volume environments like ours, this step is key to maintaining both performance and safety.
8. Emergency Preparedness and First Aid:
We maintain fully stocked first aid kits at designated locations and conduct safety drills for emergency response. Team members are trained in:
- Treating minor burns and lacerations
- Using fire extinguishers
- Emergency shutdown procedures
These protocols help minimize response time and protect both personnel and property.
9. Hazard Communication
Welders are trained to understand the hazards of each material they work with. This includes:
- Reading SDS (Safety Data Sheets) for metals and fillers
- Identifying potential fumes from galvanized or coated materials
- Using proper ventilation and PPE accordingly
This ensures the right precautions are in place for each project — whether fabricating stainless steel handrails or aluminum enclosures.
10. Ergonomics and Fatigue Prevention:
Repetitive stress injuries are common in fabrication environments. We mitigate these by:
- Adjustable workstations for standing and seated positions
- Tool balancing systems to reduce arm strain
- Encouraging regular breaks and stretch routines for long shifts
Protecting our workforce means extending careers and maintaining consistent quality.
Welding safety at Mansilla Architectural Metals is built into every process — not bolted on as an afterthought. From PPE and ventilation to electrical safeguards and emergency readiness, we take a proactive approach to protect our team and deliver flawless, code-compliant fabrication. Because great work starts with a safe environment — and we build it that way.
