Working as a welder comes with many occupational hazards, from heat and flames to dangerous fumes and ultraviolet radiation. Having the proper personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential for welders to stay safe on the job. Here are five critical pieces of PPE that no welder should be without:
1. Welding Helmet
A welding helmet is undoubtedly the most vital piece of PPE for welders. Welding helmets protect the eyes and face from sparks, spatter, and harmful ultraviolet and infrared rays emitted from the welding arc. At a minimum, a welding helmet should have a #10 shade filter lens. Auto-darkening lenses that switch from light to dark when an arc is struck are highly recommended, as they allow the welder to see the weld puddle clearly before striking an arc. Make sure the helmet is well-fitted and covers the neck as well. Look for impact-resistant helmets to protect against bumps and drops.
2. Welding Gloves
Thick, durable PPE welding gloves help prevent burns from hot metals and sparks. Welding gloves are generally made from heat-resistant leather, though some synthetic blends work as well. Gauntlet-style gloves offer extra protection for the wrists and forearms. Make sure to choose gloves based on the type of welding being done, as varying degrees of dexterity and protection are required for different welding jobs. TIG welding, in particular, requires thin, flexible gloves for precision work. Check gloves for holes or tears regularly and replace damaged gloves immediately.
3. Safety Boots
Sturdy steel-toe safety boots keep welder's feet safe from heavy objects, hot spatter, and other on-site hazards. Leather boots are ideal for welders since leather offers heat, flame, and electrical resistance. The boots should have thick slip-resistant soles to insulate against heat and provide stability on the job. Make sure boots fit properly and are broken in to avoid blisters and discomfort when working long shifts. Proper fit and traction help prevent slips and falls as well.
4. Flame Retardant Clothing
As the name implies, flame-retardant clothing is designed not to catch fire. Welding jackets and pants made of flame-retardant cotton, leather, or other materials will self-extinguish if they do catch a spark. At a minimum, welders should wear an FR jacket; FR pants are also highly recommended. FR clothing will have tags indicating they meet standards. This PPE protects against serious burns. Make sure there are no flammable cuffs, pockets or trim on the clothing.
5. Respirator
Respirators protect welders from inhaling dangerous fumes like welding gases, zinc and manganese oxides, and metal particulates. A simple disposable N95 respirator is OK for some jobs, but a half-mask or full-face respirator with the correct filter cartridges is better for prolonged or extensive welding work. Make sure to get a properly fitted respirator and inspect its condition regularly. Proper respiratory protection is a must for all welders. Consult safety data sheets to ensure the right respirator is worn for the materials being welded.
The intense environment of welding worksites means taking safety seriously. Welders should always inspect their PPE before each use and make sure to replace any gear that is damaged, worn out, or ineffective. Employers must also do their part in providing the necessary protective equipment. Staying protected with the right welding safety gear allows welders to complete each job securely. Investing in high quality PPE saves money in the long run by preventing injuries and lost time.
