Welding involves hazards like burns, sparks, toxic fumes, eye damage, and loud noise. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is your first line of defense. This guide breaks down the essential PPE every welder should use, what it protects against, and how to use it properly.
Quick Reference: Welding PPE
| PPE Item | Protects Against | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Clothing | Heat, sparks, UV/IR radiation | Flame-resistant, leather/cotton, full coverage |
| Gloves & Gauntlets | Heat, spatter, cuts | Leather/kevlar, insulated, snug fit |
| Helmets & Masks | Arc flash, spatter, UV/IR | Auto-darkening, air-fed, replaceable lenses |
| Eye Protection | Light, debris | Goggles/safety glasses, ANSI Z87.1 or BS EN 166 rated |
| Hearing Protection | Noise >85 dB | Ear defenders, compatible with helmets |
| Heat Reflective Clothing | Radiant heat | Aluminized Kevlar, worn over FR clothing |
| Blankets, Mats & Screens | Sparks, spatter, UV | Fire-resistant, positioned around work area |
| Gas Cylinder Handling | Explosions, leaks | Secure cages, trolleys, upright storage |
| Tarpaulins & Fire Barrier Fabric | Fire spread | Flame-retardant, covers equipment/areas |
| Strip Curtains & Tents | UV, sparks, environment | Safe welding zones, controlled airflow |
Essential PPE Breakdown
1. Welders’ Protective Clothing
- Purpose: Protects from sparks, heat, UV/IR.
- Features: Flame-resistant (leather, FR cotton), high collars, secure fastenings.
- Care: Keep clean, inspect for damage, replace when worn.
2. Welding Gloves & Gauntlets
- Purpose: Shields hands from burns, cuts, spatter.
- Types:
- Leather (cowhide, pigskin, deerskin, goatskin).
- Aluminized (reflect heat).
- Kevlar (cut + heat resistance).
- Care: Correct fit, inspect often, replace if damaged.
3. Welding Helmets & Masks
- Purpose: Prevents arc eye, burns, and face injuries.
- Types:
- Auto-darkening helmets – lens adjusts automatically.
- Air-fed helmets (PAPR) – filtered air, ideal for confined spaces.
- Standard helmets/masks – basic face protection.
- Care: Inspect lenses, batteries, and shell regularly.
4. Eye Protection
- Purpose: Guards against “welder’s flash” and debris.
- Types: Goggles, spectacles, safety glasses (ANSI Z87.1 / BS EN 166).
- Best practice: Always wear safety glasses under helmets.
5. Hearing Protection
- Purpose: Prevents hearing damage from machines/noise >85dB.
- Types: Ear defenders, earmuffs, plugs (helmet-compatible).
6. Heat Reflective Clothing
- Purpose: Protects from radiant heat (not direct flame).
- Use: Worn over standard FR clothing, covers exposed skin.
7. Welding Blankets, Mats, Screens & Curtains
- Blankets/Mats: Protect floors, machinery, and improve comfort.
- Screens/Curtains: Protect bystanders from UV, sparks, spatter.
8. Gas Cylinder Storage & Handling
- Use: Store upright in cages, transport with trolleys.
- Safety: Never roll or drag cylinders; inspect valves regularly.
9. Fire Retardant Tarpaulins & Barrier Fabric
- Purpose: Prevents fire spread, shields surrounding areas.
- Use: Drape over/around equipment, inspect often, replace when worn.
10. Welding Tents & Work Shelters
- Purpose: Safe, controlled welding environment outdoors.
- Use: Protects from wind, dust, rain; improves safety and quality.
Key Takeaway
PPE is non-negotiable in welding — each item protects against a specific hazard, and together they create a safe working environment. Always inspect, maintain, and replace PPE as needed.
