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HygieneReady

Welding Safety Awareness: syllabus

United Kingdom version. Last updated 31 October 2026.

3 online modules, each with a real-life scenario and a short quiz, then a final test of 12 questions. Pass with 9 correct answers in 20 minutes. Refresher training is recommended every 3 years.

  1. Module 1. Welding hazards and the law

    Welding and cutting create fume, intense light, heat, sparks and electrical risks. Each can cause serious harm.

    What you will learn

    • Name the main hazards of welding and cutting.
    • Explain why welding fume is so harmful.
    • Describe the legal duties.

    Key points

    • Welding risks include fume, UV light, fire, electric shock and gas cylinders.
    • All welding fume can cause lung cancer.
    • Fume must be controlled with extraction, not just general ventilation.

    Based on: Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974; Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH); Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998; Electricity at Work Regulations 1989; HSE guidance on welding fume.

  2. Module 2. Controlling fume, light and fire

    Fume extraction, screens and fire precautions protect the welder and everyone nearby.

    What you will learn

    • Use extraction and respiratory protection correctly.
    • Protect yourself and others from arc light.
    • Follow hot work fire precautions.

    Key points

    • Extract fume at source with LEV; wear RPE where fume remains.
    • Correct shade filter, covered skin and screens for others.
    • Hot work permit, clear combustibles, extinguisher and fire watch.

    Based on: Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974; Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH); Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998; Electricity at Work Regulations 1989; HSE guidance on welding fume.

  3. Module 3. Electrical safety and gas cylinders

    Welding uses electricity and compressed gases, both of which need careful handling.

    What you will learn

    • Check welding equipment before use.
    • Avoid electric shock.
    • Handle and store gas cylinders safely.

    Key points

    • Check welding equipment, keep dry and place the return clamp close to the weld.
    • Cylinders upright and secured; oxygen away from oil and grease.
    • Flashback arrestors on oxy-fuel sets; test for leaks with fluid, never flame.

    Based on: Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974; Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH); Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998; Electricity at Work Regulations 1989; HSE guidance on welding fume.

HygieneReady certificates confirm completion of training. They are not a regulated qualification. Definitions of the key terms are in the glossary.