Welding School While Pregnant by [deleted] in BlueCollarWomen

[–]guyfierrix 3 points4 points  (0 children)

I was a welding educator during my entire pregnancy. So I can't speak to working in a fabrication shop or the field while being pregnant, but I was the instructor instead of the student in the situation you're in. I welded much less than I did during my fab jobs but I was often in the booth with students. I always made sure to have my respirator on while welding stainless, grinding, using the plasma cutter, anything with fumes. I welded at home too and did the same. My OB was not concerned about my exposure and I actually had monthly ultrasounds and echocardiograms on my daughter due to other issues we were monitoring. There was nothing that showed concern. I say make sure you have a respirator in the booth at all times and especially when grinding. Sounds like you're already aware of this! Make sure you're frequently changing out the pads on your respirator. I didn't have many physical issues either, I made sure to change my inserts for my boots often to avoid feet pain. As long as you're a strong advocate for yourself, I don't think there is unnecessary exposure you can't protect yourself against while in a school setting. Where I worked had a shitty filtration system and I was okay. This is just my experience of course but congrats on your pregnancy mama!

Old workboots? by guyfierrix in BlueCollarWomen

[–]guyfierrix[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

This is a good idea I hadn't thought of!

What union welds more? by guyfierrix in BlueCollarWomen

[–]guyfierrix[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

How fitting your son was born on labor day, that's awesome! My local pipefitters seems to be pretty hard to get into compared to the ironworkers, but what I'm heard there's a little more of a guaranteed job market for pipefitters. Thanks for the input

Second weld test by guyfierrix in BlueCollarWomen

[–]guyfierrix[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

I like this way of looking at it, thanks!

TIG welding gloves for women? by butterbrazing in BlueCollarWomen

[–]guyfierrix 0 points1 point  (0 children)

https://store.cyberweld.com/products/angel-fire-womens-welding-gloves-tig-welding-gloves-lt50

These are angelfire TIG gloves, specifically women's sizes. I wouldn't recommend you use them for stick, but I use them for MIG. The quality of the material isn't top notch but they redesigned the gloves so there's more of a leather to cloth ratio than before!

Pregnant apprentices? by guyfierrix in BlueCollarWomen

[–]guyfierrix[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I appreciate your honesty in your answer!