For decades, safety has been the pinned reminder of the welding industry. Welding hazards, such as arc burns and flash eyes, are no joke. You might end up with one if you're not taking the proper precautions.

Get serious, switch your traditional gloves, and try something new using these four TIG welding gloves that will keep you safe while working. We will also rank these welding gloves based on customer reviews to ease your selection process and ensure a perfect pair for your preference. 

Take your welding skills to the next level with some new protection!

The Best TIG Welding Gloves: Ranking From Highest To Lowest

TIG welding can generate a lot more heat than you imagine, so you need a pair of gloves that will save your hands from accidents. That being said, let's begin by giving a quick overview of these 4 welding gloves.

Product NameMaterialKevlar StitchingSizeWelding Process
TILLMAN 1338 TIG Welding GlovesLeatherYesSmall, Large, Extra LargeTIG Welding
MILLER Electric 263354 TIG Welding GlovesPalm Material GoatskinYesLargeTIG Welding, Plasma Cutting
Lincoln Electric Grain Leather Welding GlovesLightweight Grain LeatherYesMedium, Large, Extra LargeTIG Welding
HZXVOGEN Heat Fire Resistant Women's TIG Welding GlovesGenuine Cowhide Split Leather and Insulated Cotton with Air-Isolated Aluminum FoilNoFree SizeTIG Welding, Plasma Cutting

#1 TILLMAN 1338 TIG Welding Gloves - 4.7/5

TILLMAN 1338 TIG welding gloves
Source: TILLMAN

At the top of our list is the TILLMAN 1338 TIG welding gloves. These work gloves are durable cowhide and reinforced seams for added strength. 

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#2 MILLER Electric 263354 TIG Welding Gloves - 4.6/5

MILLER Electric TIG Arc Armor Welding Gloves
Source: MILLER

Our second in line is the MILLER Electric TIG Arc Armor Welding Gloves. These TIG welding hand gloves are exceptionally well-crafted and satisfy most welders at work. 

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#3 Lincoln Electric Grain Leather Welding Gloves - 4.5/5

Lincoln Electric TIG Welding Gloves
Source: LINCOLN

Next on our list is the well-known Lincoln Electric TIG Welding Gloves. The features of these TIG gloves help you create a high level of precision to get the welding job done right!

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#4 HZXVOGEN Heat Fire Resistant Women's TIG Welding Gloves - 4.5/5

HZXVOGEN TIG Welding Gloves
Source: HZXVOGEN

The HZXVOGEN TIG Welding Gloves are the right pair for your scars and burns! These gloves are made from high-quality fire-resistant fabric and they're rated to protect against temperatures up to 932 degrees Fahrenheit.

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What's Our Verdict: The TILLMAN Welding Gloves Wins!

We've looked at four different pairs of best TIG welding gloves and ranked them according to customer satisfaction ratings. We recommend the Tillman 1338 TIG Welding Gloves. It stays true to its superior protection features against extreme heat and sparks. 

Safety should always be your number one priority when working with any welding equipment, so don't take any chances—invest in a good pair of TIG welding gloves and stay protected while working! 

If you need help in selecting the best pair for your needs, feel free to browse more of our website. We have several buying guides and reviews that can ensure your welding job safely and efficiently.

In addition to helmets, a welder needs other equipment to be fully protected from head to toe. From the helmet, suit, jacket, gloves, and down to the boots, each protective gear should be able to withstand the harsh conditions of welding. 

Welding boots are one of the most overlooked safety equipment for welders. Just because you don't use your feet when welding doesn't mean they do not need protection. We searched the marketplace for the best safety boots for welding and found Timberland PRO, which features a wide range of protective footwear

We'll closely inspect the Timberland PRO Powerwelt Wellington Boots, look at its features, and know why this is a must-have for every welder. 

Important Things to Look for in Welding Boots 

Your casual sneakers or fanciest boots may not pass as safety shoes for welding. Welding boots are specialized shoes designed to protect individuals in the welding profession. When purchasing protective boots, here are some considerations you should note of. 

timberland pro powerwelt wellington
Source: https//www.timberland.com/

Introducing the Timberland Powerwelt Wellington Boots 

Features

The line of Timberland footwear is one of the best and most preferred by customers. Let's look at the Powerwelt Wellington boots and see why it's worth getting a pair. 

100% Leather 

Tough jobs need tough shoes. So the Timberland Powerwelt Wellington shoes are 100% leather. The footwear uses Ever-Guard leather, which is abrasion-resistant and extremely durable, making the boots long-lasting. 

It's also full-grain leather from the top of the animal hide and produces the best leather for footwear. The boots have a mid-calf design, ensuring wider protection for your feet and lower legs. 

Comfortable Boots

Comfort is key in the design of the Timberland boots. First, the leather is soft and comfortable to the skin and won't cause irritations after a long day. The boots have a contoured Ortholite footbed for ultimate cushioning, providing comfort for individuals who stand all the time. 

The special foam adapts to the contours of your feet and specifically targets pressure points like the arch and heels to prevent any pain. 

Construction-Centered Shoe Design 

The boots have electrical hazard features that protect you from electric shocks, which are perfect for individuals who work with high-voltage machines. In addition, the boots are oil-resistant and have anti-slip soles, so they help you be stable in slippery situations. 

Timberland also features Ladder Lock technology sole design, which gives extra support for workers who use ladders or climb on edges. In addition, the soles give extra gripping power to ensure your fall or slip on your steps. 

Finally, the boots are 100% waterproof. You can use these boots indoors, outdoors, or in any weather. 

PowerFit Comfort Technology 

The Timberland Powerwelt Wellington is made with Goodyear welt construction, dubbed as the gold standard for shoes among footwear aficionados. Only 1% of shoes produced around the globe have Goodyear welt construction. 

It has been popular because of its extreme durability. Even if you abuse your shoes, you won't need to worry. It will last you decades. 

The boots also have an antimicrobial lining to keep your feet fresh and prevent foul odors. It also has a pull-on design for convenience on and off. It's a great advantage that these boots have no laces because they can catch fire from sparks from welding

Steel Toe Boots and Wide Sizing 

The steel toe feature is one of the most outstanding features of these protective boots for welding. The steel toe cap protects you from potentially falling heavy objects which can crush your feet and cause injuries. Even with the steel toe protection, the boots do not crowd your toes together, thus avoiding irritation. 

Furthermore, the Timberland PRO Powerwelt Wellington has a wide range of sizes. They are available in sizes 7 to 15 and in a wide option. These boots cater to a wide range of feet sizes, so every welder gets high-quality boots for welding. 

worn out boots for welding and construction

Drawbacks

The Timberland Powerwelt Wellington sounds like the best welding boots you can get, but it's also important to see its potential drawbacks. Following are some disadvantages of Timberland footwear that you should be aware of before making a purchase.

Not Completely Fireproof

There is no clear description of the Timberland Powerwelt Wellington being fireproof. Although the boots are made from leather with natural fireproof properties, other boots for welding are tailored with other materials and chemicals for a better fireproof feature. 

In addition, the Powerwelt Wellington boots can withstand only a specific amount of heat, so be mindful when working with extreme heat. 

Expensive 

The Timberland PRO Powerwelt Wellington boots are made from premium materials and crafted from high-quality construction. As a result, these boots come with an expensive price tag. Its starting price is $180 for the smallest size. The bigger and wider shoes you get, the more expensive the welding boots. 

There are cheaper options that cost twice as less as these boots. If your budget is a little tight, you may want to consider other brands that won't break the bank. 

Final Verdict 

Overall protective equipment for welding is necessary for every welder. Welding accidents have roots in improper welding equipment, even if you're skilled and experienced. The Timberland PRO Powerwelt Wellington is one of the best welding boots out there. These boots are specifically designed for welding and packed with protective features. If you want more in-depth reviews of safety gears—boots for welding, welding helmets, welding gloves, and other accessories, don't forget to subscribe to our blogs.

Welders like you are more prone to developing ocular melanoma and arc eye because of your work. So, wearing the best welding helmet for eye protection is required for welders and employers. 

Welding helmets have different designs, but all are made to protect your eyes from sparks and other flying debris. There are also different welding helmets, including auto-darkening. 

In this article, we'll check out four of the best auto-darkening welding helmets. This roundup review will help you decide faster amid all the excellent options. Let's start!

1. Kobalt Welding Helmet

Lens Features

The Kobalt auto-darkening welding helmet uses lens shade level 5-13, which ensures that you get the right protection for your eyes depending on the welding activity you are engaged in. The lens adjusts at 1/20,000th speed, so eye flash burns are kept at bay. 

Even when you work in tight spaces, you can have a good view of the piece you are working in because of the 3.94” x 3.66” viewing area. 

Comfort and Aesthetics

Aside from the eyes, the Kobalt welding helmet headgear also protects the face and neck from metal sparks and spatters. Among the many helmets sold, this one will stand out because of its cool and catchy design—a black base with lightning bolts.

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Cons

2. YesWelder LYG-L500A True Color Helmet

Lens Features

With the YesWelder welding helmet, you won't see only shades of green but the true colors of the metal, the sparks, and everything in between. The helmet has variable shades of 9-13. You can clearly see your workpiece and welding area because of the lens size of 3.64” x 1.67”. 

The YesWelder helmet uses manual control to adjust the helmet's light sensitivity and delays. You can set it accordingly for TIG, MIG, or Stick welding. 

Comfort and Aesthetics

If you seek exciting helmet designs, you'll find them with the LYG-L500A. You can have the classic pitch-black helmet, the one designed with lightning bolts and another with red flames. 

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Cons

3. Antra AH6-660-6104 Large Viewing Welding Helmet

Lens Features

With the Antra AH6-660-6140, your eyes are protected from radiation and metal splatters because of its passive filter and double layers of auto-darkening LCD shutter. After setting the shade and speed, the helmet adjusts accordingly using its super-fast switching technology after the LCD detects light from the weld. 

After triggering the auto shade, you can clearly view the material you are working on because of the helmet's 3.86” x 2.50” lens viewing area. 

Comfort and Aesthetics

The large viewing area also keeps your posture, especially the neck, free from pain—no difficult neck tilts needed. The Antra helmet also does not fall short of six available helmet designs.

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4. Tooliom TL-21800F Large Viewing, True Color Helmet

Lens Features

To use the Tooliom TL-21800F welding helmet for eye protection, set the external sensitivity delay and shade adjustment knobs outside the helmet. This way, the helmet can auto-darken once it detects welding light. 

Because of the helmet's True Color technology, you'll have extra eye comfort seeing everything in real color instead of green hues. 

Comfort and Aesthetics

You can add a cheater or magnifying lens to the Tooliom TL-21800F to get a clearer view of the material you are working with. The Tolliom helmet is also breathable and sweat-absorbing, ensuring you can focus as you work.

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5. ESAB Sentinel A50 Infinitely Adjustable Helmet

Lens Features

With the ESAB Sentinel A50's LCD touchscreen panel, you can accurately and conveniently adjust the shade and delay settings of the helmet. So, when you start welding, the lens will auto-darken to protect your eyes

On top of this, the spherical shape of the lens will allow you to see your workpiece. Not to mention, the helmet also has a large viewing area measuring 3.93” x 2.36”. 

Comfort and Aesthetics

If you are looking for classic helmet designs, you'll find the ESAB Sentinel A50 extremely appealing. Its yellow lens stands out from the helmet's pitch-black shell. For a comfortable fit, utilize the helmet's infinitely adjustable five-point contact headgear feature. 

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Protect Your Eyes With The Correct Welding Helmet

The eyes are an essential part of the body that needs to be protected. As a welder, you need extra protection because you are exposed to harmful materials at work. You can do this by using the correct welding helmet for your needs.

We hope this roundup review helped you slim down your options. If you need more information about helmets, questions like who makes a Kobalt welding helmet, and other welding safety gears, check out our reviews and buying guides. You'll get more information from this site!

Welders have often been called the new knights of the industrial age because of their ability to endure the extreme dangers of welding, like burns, respiratory irritation, or exposure to welding fumes. 

However, this still comes with a price even though their body can tolerate it—including their eyesight.

This mishap can lead to severe painful injuries like corneal flash burns. We will cover all you need to know about this type of eye injury and how you should be aware of this hazard. We will also help you to take action to protect yourself if you have ever experienced one.

Inside the Welder's Eyes: An Overview of Corneal Flash Burns

The cornea is the eye's thin, protective outer layer that sends reflections to the retina. When light hits the cornea, it triggers a reflexive contraction of the pupil to limit the number of light rays that enter the eye. 

But sometimes, that process does not go smoothly, and the new cells don't line up correctly due to too much light exposure. This is where the burning or stinging sensation of the eye occurs, leading to eye problems like corneal flash burns.

Primarily, ultraviolet rays are the biggest villain of welders. These are electromagnetic waves with a shorter wavelength than visible light. UV photons are classified into three types: 

UVC rays are the most dangerous. However, UVA and UVB rays are all present in the UV arc that causes pain to the skin and eyes, leading to corneal burns, cataracts, and other vision problems. 

In addition to ultraviolet lights, welding fumes contribute to corneal flash burns. These are tiny particles of metal created when welding or soldering. They have a higher chance of getting lodged in the eyes and irritating them.

Possible Indications of Corneal Flash Burns

There are always bad signs during welding. And, when it comes to our eyes, the consequences can be disastrous. So it is important to identify the symptoms if you experience a corneal flash burn to remove the gritty feeling in your eyes and get the necessary treatment. 

Although that can vary depending on the intensity and duration of exposure, the symptoms of this eye burn typically include the following:

Most individuals recover from corneal flash burns without long-term consequences if they receive immediate care. Nonetheless, you need to take efforts to protect your eyes from UV rays to avoid this type of harm in the future.

Welder's Flash Eye Treatments: 6 Ways to Reduce Eye Pain

welders flash - Closeup view of old man applying eye drop

Welders' flashes can be extremely hazardous to your eyes, but there is hope. You only need the right equipment and precautions taken in order not only to protect yourself from injury but also to ensure that you do not lose vision forever. 

Here are some recommendations for relieving eye discomfort:

1. Take action right away.

The first approach to eliminating the threat is to flush your eyes with clean, cool water for at least 15 minutes. This action will help soothe the burning sensation and remove any irritants lingering on your eyeballs.

2. Avoid rubbing your eyes.

It is necessary to avoid rubbing or touching your eye once you experience any of these symptoms. It can further damage the cornea and prolong the healing process. Instead, try to blink frequently or press a cool, damp cloth against your eye. 

3. Apply an eye patch or eye shield.

Do not attempt to remove any foreign objects stuck in your eye. Alternatively, apply an eye patch or shield to protect the injured eye from further irritation. 

4. Take an over-the-counter pain reliever.

You should take medications like Ibuprofen to reduce the intense pain of your burning eyes.

5. Wear personal protective equipment.

There are available safety gears that you can use for your welding. Welding glasses, for example, are specially designed to protect your eyes from the bright light, fumes, and particles produced during welding. 

A welding hood can also conceal your whole head and face. This light-blocking protective covering is constructed of dark material. It also has a lens on a welding hood that filters out harmful UV rays.

6. Visit an eye doctor.

Doctors will typically recommend using an artificial tear or a steroid eye drop to reduce inflammation and promote healing. In some circumstances, antibiotic eye drops may be prescribed to prevent infection. 

With adequate care, most people recover completely from corneal flash burns within a week or two. It is imperative, though, to follow your doctor's recommendations and use the prescribed therapies until your eyes are entirely healed.

With the help of these welder's flash burn treatments, you can continue welding without fear of damaging your vision.

Escape the Red Sights, Follow the Hazards Control

Welders are at risk of developing corneal flash burns. These eye injuries can be painful and lead to long-term visual difficulties if not treated properly. That is why welders need to know what causes them and how their symptoms should look to ensure they get a welder's flash treatment quickly.

Here at Welding Buddy, we recognize the importance of welding safety and want to make sure that all welders have the best chance of recovering from ocular flash burns. If you wanna know more about the welding process and hazards, browse more of our website and check our reviews to help keep you safe while welding.

A quality welding helmet is a must for every welder. Helmets are the first line of defense against skin and flash burns. There are different styles and builds of helmets available in the marketplace. Choosing the correct fit, material, and features will guarantee your protection, so there are many considerations you should take note of. 

If you're having difficulty choosing from a wide range of welding helmets, maybe it is better to have a custom-made one. With a custom helmet, you can select specific features that will help you work efficiently and style it according to your choice. 

Essential Considerations for A Custom Welding Helmet 

If you’ve decided to get a custom helmet, don’t put all your focus on how it looks. Comfort and functionality are important as well. Therefore, to help you come up with the best welding helmet, here are some considerations you should look into. 

Types of welding lens

Choosing the appropriate lens should be the top priority for your welding helmets. There are different lenses available for a welder's helmet, and your choice will not only protect your eyes but also help you work easier. Let's go into detail about your lens choices. 

Passive lens 

Many welder's helmets in the market have passive lenses because this is the economical choice. If you're on a budget and don't want to blow it all on lenses, this is a wise choice. Passive lenses are usually worn in an upright position, and when welders work, they need to flip them down to protect their eyes from the harmful emission of the welding. 

You need to repeatedly flip the lenses to use them, which can be a hassle for some welders. But aside from the manual function of the lens, it does not compromise the protection it gives to your eyes. 

Auto-darkening lens

An auto-darkening lens feature is popular among welders because of its convenience. Compared to passive lenses, the auto-darkening feature automatically protects your eyes once you start welding. You don't need to flip the lens manually before you start working. Furthermore, this feature adapts to your working environment. If you're not working, the lens will also lighten on its own to help you see clearly. 

It's also important to know that auto-darkening welding helmets need power to work. Make sure to look for an auto-darkening helmet to have back-up power supplies so you can continue using the feature and protect your eyes even when the main power source fails. 

Power source 

If you opt to have a manual welding helmet, you won’t have to worry about the power source. But for a custom welder’s helmet with technological features that need power, you also need to consider the best power source for you. 

Battery-powered helmets 

There are many battery-powered helmets for welding, and it's one of the more popular choices for welders. Typical lithium batteries work with welding helmets if your concern is the type of battery—no need to search for special batteries. 

Just note that you have to change batteries from time to time when you run out of power. So better have a stock of batteries, so you never have to run out of power. You can also have a set of rechargeable batteries. Instead of buying disposable ones, you can reuse them, which will give you significant savings over time. 

Solar-powered helmets 

Buying batteries can be expensive, especially when always working for extended periods. Solar-powered helmets can help you cut the cost. You don't have to worry about the power output between batteries and solar-powered helmets. Both can run auto-darkening features just fine. 

Of course, you have to expose the solar panel to the sun to accumulate energy during your work. Fortunately for you, solar-powered helmets have backup batteries in case you run out of power. This feature will ensure your helmet functions are working continuously. 

Viewing area measurement 

Most commercial welding helmets provide a small viewing area. As you'll notice, most welding helmets have viewing areas that only range from the left to the right eye. But there are welding helmets that allow a 180-degree view so you see more of your work station. 

The viewing area greatly depends on your preference. There are viewing areas that let you see up to 180 degrees. Some welders prefer seeing more of their workspace to help them more efficiently. You can try on samples to see which is more comfortable for you. 

welding helmet with cool flames design

Welding helmet material 

You can also choose a material for your custom weld helmet. There are three popular materials used for helmet shells today: leather, metal, and hard plastic. Let's look at the different helmet materials and see which suits you best. 

Metal helmets

The most favorable material choice for metal helmets is carbon fiber. This material is known for its durability and lightweight features. It can protect you from the hot emission and possible impacts of your welding activities. However, carbon fiber is an expensive material. Choosing a welding helmet made from this metal will be quite an investment. 

Other metals can also be used for welding helmets, and they are also durable but not as lightweight as carbon fiber. Heavy helmets can strain your necks and shoulders, which can lessen the time you work on your projects. 

Plastic helmets 

There are thermoplastic materials that are compatible with helmet use. If you're looking for a lightweight helmet that's not as expensive as metal helmets, this is your best choice. These thermoplastic materials have a higher melting point compared to standard plastics. These materials can withstand up to 300 degrees. 

Although hard plastics can withstand heat, be careful not to expose them to extreme heat for too long. It can soften the materials, which can compromise the quality of your helmet. 

Leather helmets 

Workers have used leather helmets for a long time, and it has proven effective in protecting welders from intense heat and potential burns. Genuine leather is fireproof and can withstand punctures to protect you from workplace hazards. 

Furthermore, leather is also lightweight and breathable enough to be comfortable even if you're working for long periods. However, leather helmets can’t take much of an impact. Be careful of heavy falling objects when using leather helmets. 

Final Thoughts 

When it comes to headgear that guarantees to protect you from your activities, there are many considerations to think about. Taking preventive measures is better than finding an easy way to cure injuries. We hope these considerations for a custom welding helmet help you find the most suitable protective gear for welding. 

Subscribe to our blog for more detailed reviews. We also have articles on more safety gear like specific welding helmets, welding gloves, and safety boots.

Welders understand the importance of safety in their profession. If there is one piece of equipment that is often disregarded when it comes to safety, it is pants. 

Some welders, believe it or not, still wear conventional pants when welding. They have no idea that specific pants made for welding can provide an extra layer of protection against sparks and other hazards associated with the trade.

If you are still unsure about the type of welding trousers to wear, learn more about their importance and what best welding pants to pick for your safety and protection.

Risks and Dangers Associated With Welding

According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), welding is one of the most hazardous occupations in the United States. Some of the specific dangers associated with welding include:

Welding is a dangerous job. Keep in mind that welding equipment is vital to the welding process. Without suitable welding equipment, health risks and severe injuries are more likely to be present.

The Importance of Welding Safety Gear

Welding safety equipment is non-negotiable for any welder. It shields you from the strong heat and sparks produced by welding and the damaging UV rays created by the welding arc. Furthermore, welding safety equipment limits the danger if you come into touch with the welding arc by accident.

Here are some common welding safety equipment that you need and how they protect you:

Welding safety equipment are necessary for everyone who wants to weld safely.

In Focus: BOCOMAL Men's Cargo Pants for Welding 

BOCOMAL Men's Cargo Pants for Welding
Source: BOCOMAL

Welders' safety should be prioritized; hence taking precautions is essential. Getting the appropriate gear for your welding activities is part of that safety. For example, you will need a nice pair of welding pants to be safe from the sparks and heat in your field.

The BOCOMAL Men's Cargo Welding Pants is the best pants for welding we can recommend. It is made of cotton and is treated with flame-resistant chemicals so you can safely work in your field.

Product Details

Here is some relevant information you need to know before purchasing this protective clothing for welding. 

Features

Let's narrow down some of the best features of these best work pants to see if you will be impressed with their quality and value.

Elastic Waist Bands

The BOCOMAL Men's Cargo Welding Pants are the perfect choice when you need a pair that will move with you while working. It presents an elastic waistband for a secure and comfortable fit. Thus, no more baggy pants get in your way when you are trying to work!

Double Front on Knees

Nothing is more inconvenient than having your pants unhinge at the seams while you are on the job. But here in BOCOMAL, these welding pants are made with reinforced knees to prevent rips and tears.

Boot Cut Relaxed Fit

With BOCOMAL's boot cut relaxed fit to move around pants, you can have the best of both worlds. These good pants for welding provide a comfortable boot-cut leg opening that won't restrict your movement since they are easy to slip on and off over your boots.

Hook and Loop Closure

These best pants feature a comfortable hook and loop waist closure that won't come undone, even during the most strenuous work.

Cargo Pockets

The cargo pockets on the BOCOMAL's pants are spacious enough to contain all of your tools and welding accessories for good measure.

Flame-Resistant Material

These welding jeans are made with flame-resistant fabric, so you can rest assured that you'll be protected in an accident.

Drawbacks

BOCOMAL men's cargo welding trousers have one possible downside, despite having several qualities that make them excellent for welding. Customers note that they do not fit true to size. Most say they are too long or too short for their bodies, so they are forced to alter the pants to fit snugly. 

Final Thoughts

Having the proper safety gear is critical if you weld or work in an environment where sparks and heat are a regular occurrence. While welding helmets and gloves get a lot of attention, welding pants are often underrated.

The BOCOMAL Men's Cargo Welding Pants is an amazing choice with many unnoticed qualities but with a downside. Ultimately, it is up to you if you want to alter the pants or look for another one. Nonetheless, it still works against safety and risks.

We hope this informative guide points out the importance of having safety welding equipment. If you want to explore other welding items—such as helmets, gloves, and boots, explore our full selection of welding reviews to find everything you need to stay safe while you weld.

Welding is a dangerous occupation. UV exposure, flash burns, and lung pain are just some of the most common injuries sustained in welding. Some of these injuries are minor, but others can be life-threatening. But there are safety precautions and practices you can implement every time you are welding to keep yourself protected. 

In this blog post, we’ll learn more about the different welding hazards you could encounter and some safety precautions you should take note of. These precautions and safety tips are simple but can effectively prevent accidents from happening in the workplace. 

Welding Hazards and Their Preventive Measures 

Welding hazards are an inevitable part of the welding process. These hazards include, but are not limited to, welding flash burns, smoke inhalation, metal fumes, and UV radiation exposure. That’s why knowing the essential safety precautions is a must for every welder. Let’s look at the different welding hazards and simple tips for workplace safety. 

Welding Electrical Hazards 

Welding electricians work with high-voltage equipment and are susceptible to electrical shock if they come into contact with energized wires or terminals. Moreover, most welding arc processes use a huge amount of electricity to run. That's why electric shocks and other hazards are more dangerous and even fatal during welding. 

It’s also important to note that you are most vulnerable to electric hazards when your workstation is damp, when metal structures surround you, and when you work in tight and cramped spaces where you are laying down or kneeling. But here are some safety practices you can do to keep you safe from electrical shocks during welding. 

protective welding essentials

Welding Noise Hazards 

During the welding process, you are susceptible to loud noises. Welding equipment can produce up to 85 dB, which is considered loud noise. Moreover, sounds from other equipment like cutting torches, plasma and arc gouge can go over 100 dB. Prolonged exposure to loud noises can cause hearing problems that can develop into permanent hearing loss. 

Loud noises can also trigger ringing of the ears and vertigo. In other cases, this may cause increased heart rate and high blood pressure. Here are some safety tips for practicing when you are working with loud noises. 

Exposure to Gases and Toxic Fumes

During the welding process, welders are usually exposed to gases used for welding. These fumes can be dangerous and painful when inhaled. Gases commonly used in welding are nickel oxide, carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxide, and chromium. These gases can harm one's respiratory system when they enter your body in large quantities. 

These toxic fumes can lead to illnesses like pneumonia, situational asthma, throat and lung irritation and in severe cases, lung cancer. But with the preventive measures and correct safety equipment, you can prevent any form of respiratory damage. 

used welding gloves and helmet

Welding Burn Hazards 

Welding burns are some of the most severe and painful injuries a welder can suffer. Welding flash burn is caused by exposure to the bright light produced during welding. The UV light from the weld can cause severe burns to the eyes and skin. If these burns are unattended, they can lead to permanent eye damage and persistent infections. Here are some practices to help you navigate through welder’s flash and skin burns.

Conclusion 

Welding flash burns and other related hazards are a part of welding. If you're not trained with the proper safety measures, you are vulnerable to accidents which can cause permanent damage. Since welding is hazardous, safety gear and good practices are essential for every welder. We hope this overview of the different welding hazards and preventive measures helps you work safely. 

If you need anything about welding, like information on tools, safety gear, welding accessories, step-by-step welding flash burn treatment, and in-depth equipment reviews, don't forget to subscribe to our blogs.

Welding is one of the most hazardous jobs in the construction industry. The first precautions for welders is wearing the appropriate safety gear. But sometimes, work accidents still happen no matter how careful you are. 

It’s common to see burns due to welding activities because of the high heat involved in the welding process. Some skin burns, when not appropriately treated, can cause scarring. Flash burns can also happen, which can cause permanent damage to your eyes. When accidents like these happen, it's crucial to know quick treatments to avoid lasting damage to your body. 

In this article, we'll share some quick treatments you can do for these nasty injuries. We'll also be giving preventive measures to make sure you can avoid these accidents from happening. 

Welding flash burns 

Have you ever experienced a sunburn? The feeling of your skin being overexposed to UV rays can be very painful. Flash burns are essentially the same, but instead of getting the burning sensation on your skin, it happens in your eyes. Fortunately, the eyes can self-heal over time, but leaving the flash burn untreated can lead to infections, vision problems, or worse—vision loss. 

Treating flash burns is essential knowledge to welders. The faster you can respond to your injuries, the greater chance it won't do any lasting damage. Here are some practices you can do when dealing with welding flash burns. 

Do not self-diagnose. 

When flash burns happen, you will feel moderate to intense pain in your eye area for the next few hours. Your eyes can also get hazy and turn red due to the burn. These are normal for flash burns, but always check with your doctor so that they can assess the damage and treat your injury accordingly. 

Doctors don’t recommend flash burn treatment at home. Doctors shine a blue light and inject a special fluid to assess your condition correctly. Remember, the longer you wait for your injury to be checked, the greater the chance it will give you permanent damage. 

Eye drops and dressing the burnt area.

Your doctors will prescribe specific eye drops to increase the healing process. During the course of your medication, it’s normal to feel difficulty in keeping your eyes open. There's no need to panic because the eye drops are designed to relax your eye muscles to keep them rested for healing. 

Furthermore, it would be helpful to put a dressing or an eye patch over your injured eye. The less light that goes through your eyes, the faster the healing process will be. Just take note that when you have an eye patch, driving, welding, and other activities that require hand-eye coordination are limited. 

Welding skin burns 

There are plenty of tools in your workstation that can cause burns on the skin. Torches, hot metals, chemicals, and electricity can give you burns. A burn's intensity can vary depending on how long you were exposed to the heat. Some burns heal on their own, but others require further medical assistance to prevent infections. 

In case of burns, here are some practices you can do to treat them.

Get away from the heat immediately.

When burns happen, the first thing you should do is step away from the heat. Remove all clothing material burned on the injured area and go to a place with a lower temperature to ease the pain and heat temporarily. 

Try to make the burn comfortable.

You want to apply a colder temperature to the burnt area as much as possible. Dousing the burnt area with water will help it cool down. If the burnt area does not develop any blisters, you can apply a cooling gel or aloe vera to alleviate the pain. Avoid using ice cubes directly on your skin because the burnt skin will stick to the ice. Wrap the cubes in a clean cloth if you wish to use them. 

If the injured area is blistered, it's a sign of a second-degree burn. Do not attempt to peel and pop the blisters to prevent further infection. Seek medical assistance immediately for severe burns. First aid is recommended, but it’s best to get a professional diagnosis in case your burns aren’t healing. 

welding helmet to prevent flash burn

Preventive Measures to Avoid Welding Burns 

Now that you know quick skin and flash burn treatments, it’s also essential to know some precautionary measures to prevent them from happening. Here are some easy and guaranteed tips to help keep you safe during welding. 

Final Thoughts 

Accidents happen, especially when you are involved in a hazard-prone activity. Welding burns are common even for professional workers. That's why it's essential to keep yourself protected with proper safety equipment from head to toe. Moreover, whether the accidents are human error or machine error, it's crucial that you know quick and easy first aid responses. 

We hope this article on skin and flash burn treatments helps you in the future. It's better to know what to do and be ready in case emergencies happen. For more safety precautions and protective equipment for welding, explore our other blogs.

You've just come out of your garage from a long hard day of welding, and you notice your eyes feel irritated. You might suddenly be experiencing headaches. It is probably due to flash burns. 

One of the common challenges people face when trying to learn home treatment for flash burns in their eyes is that there is misinformation. It is hard to tell if you have flash burns as it has similar symptoms to overfatigue. As a result, you delay seeking treatment or ignore your eye pain entirely. 

If you're struggling to find accurate and helpful information about home treatment for flash burns in eyes because of welding, you're not alone. Welders know that there is always a risk of getting burned, but few realize the danger of flash burns to the eyes. Here's how to recognize and treat a flash burn.

A Closer Look at Flash Burns

Flash burn is no joke. It's one of the most serious things that can happen to your eyes, and it can happen instantly. So whether you're looking at the sun during a solar eclipse or getting hit with a stray beam, flash burns are something that you need to take seriously. 

That's why it's important to know the symptoms of a flash burn so that you can get medical help as soon as possible. Flash burn can cause permanent damage to your eyes, so don't hesitate to get help if you think you might have it.

How Do Welders Get Flash Burns?

Welders are at risk for photokeratitis, or "arc eye," when their eyes are exposed to the bright flashes of UV radiation given off by welding torches. 

Can Safety Gear Help Protect You From UV Exposure?

It's absolutely dangerous to weld without any safety glasses. Unfortunately, clear safety glasses do not filter out harmful UV light. At the same time, most welding helmets have a filter that lets in some UV light so the welder can see what they are doing. The amount of UV exposure depends on the welding process and how close the welder's eyes are to the arc. 

Safety goggles or helmets with shade five lenses will protect you against harmful UV and IR exposure. You also need these safety gear to protect yourself from welder's flash burns. Take note that the flash of your welding torch will affect anyone close to the welding station.

Can You Go Blind With Flash Burn?

The cornea is also pretty resilient and usually heals within a few days without permanent damage. However, if the burn is severe or not treated properly, it can lead to infection, resulting in blindness.

Causes of Flash Burns

As a welder, you know better than anyone the importance of protecting your eyes from the powerful flashes of light that come with welding. But did you know that there are other causes of flash burns besides your welding torch? Things like:

Basically, any extreme exposure to UV radiation is a cause of flash burn.

Flash burn eyes remedy and symptoms

Symptoms of Flash Burns

Symptoms of a welder's eye can be both immediate and delayed. Immediate symptoms, such as redness and pain, can occur within 30 minutes of exposure to UV radiation. However, delayed symptoms, such as swelling and blistering, may not appear for at least 12 hours. 

Other symptoms of welder's flash include:

A welder's flash can lead to permanent eye damage in severe cases. Therefore, if you experience these symptoms, it is better to seek a doctor's opinion for proper tests and treatment.

Eye Examination for Flash Burns 

Your doctor might do two kinds of tests to see the severity of the eye pain caused by the arc eye to get you the treatment you need.

The first test is called the slit lamp test. The ophthalmologist will use a special microscope to check if there is any damage to your eye, especially on your cornea. Next, your doctor will look for inflammation, injury, or degeneration signs. If the damage is severe, you may need to be treated with steroids or other medications. Plus, further tests may be needed for a more accurate treatment plan. 

Another way to check the severity of your eye pain is with a visual acuity test, a more common test to determine if you are experiencing any vision impairment. This test can be done using the Snellen or random E test. 

Flash Burn in Eyes: Home Treatment and Medical Treatment

If you've ever been unfortunate enough to experience a flash burn, you know how incredibly painful it can be. The good news is that there are a few things you can do to ease your eye pain and speed up the healing process.

If you are welding and experiencing eye pain, it is important to remove your welding helmet or goggles immediately. Moreover, it is highly recommended that you steer clear of wearing your contact lenses for the time being. Instead, we suggest that you use shades to protect your eyes from any light exposure.

Over-the-counter eye drops may improve the discomfort in your eye. However, if the pain persists, seek medical attention. Welding can cause serious damage to your eyes, so it is important to take any welding-related eye pain seriously.

There are several different treatment options for corneal flash burns:

  1. Dilating drops relax the eye muscles and decrease discomfort.
  2. Patching or covering the eye can also help. Another is to use an ice pack or a cool compress to decrease inflammation.
  3. Applying eye drops or gels can help soothe the eyes and prevent them from dryness.
  4. Wearing dark glasses or staying in a dark room helps prevent further eye strain.

In severe cases, you may need a more aggressive flash burn eye remedy. In addition, your eye doctor may ask you to take antibiotic eye drops or ointments to treat or prevent infections.

Welder with flash burn: flash burn eyes home treatment

Takeaway

So, if you're a welder or work in an industry where you might be exposed to bright UV light, it's important to take some precautions to protect your eyes. We highly advise you to wear the right safety gear with the highest shade lens. If you do experience any flashes or burns, make sure to see your eye doctor right away for treatment. 

We have some great welding helmets and other safety gear reviews on our website that can help keep you safe while you're working. Check them out today!

There are some welders who like to keep their hair long. Basically, it’s a personal choice and there’s nothing wrong with it. But, if you're one of those welders with long hair, it's important to pay attention to the risks involved during welding.

To prevent welding injuries from happening, read our blog post and understand some ideas about the dangers of intense heat and welding sparks and how to prevent them by following some easy steps. You will also discover the best safety gear that can be your lifesaver against the flame or fumes.

Welders' Conflict: The Uncertainty of Having a Long Hair

Can welders have long hair? While it's true that most welding jobs require some form of personal protective equipment (PPE), there are no hard and fast rules about hairstyles. Therefore, you can rest assured that you're not breaking any safety regulations. However, that doesn't mean that there aren't any potential risks associated with welding with long hair.

In what way? Imagine this—you're so involved in your welding tasks that you don't see your hair being scorched by the sparks and heat of the weld. Then, you suddenly feel a burning ache in your scalp. Finally, you realize that parts of your hair have already been welded to the metal. Even if you yank your head away from the dirt, the damage has already been done.

Having long hair is difficult to keep under control. First, welding entails heating metal with an electric arc until it melts. If any part of your body, including your head, comes into touch with the flames, it is likely to catch fire resulting in catastrophic injuries such as burns. 

The intense heat of the welding torch can easily ignite hair, and the fumes and chemicals released by burning hair can cause major respiratory difficulties like lung cancer, asthma, or pneumonia. Though hair is one of the rare causes of electrocution in welders, it is still vital to remember that there is a bigger risk of electric shock if your hair has been tangled in the welding cord. 

When Sparks Fly: Protect Your Long Hair with These Safety Tips

a welder with personal protective equipment (PPE)

While it may sound like something out of a horror movie, welders must be aware of the dangers of burning their hair. Fortunately, there are simple techniques to keep your long hair safe while welding. Here are some safety precautions to avoid welding your own hair:

1. Tie your hair

It may seem insignificant, but tying your hair is beneficial for your safety. As much as possible, tie it back in a ponytail or braid. You can also pin your bangs with a clip or headband. This step will help contain your hair and prevent it from getting entangled in any welding equipment.

2. Select the right welding helmet or welding hood for you

The prospect of all those hazardous UV rays and sparks harming your lovely locks is something you might not enjoy about welding. Surprisingly, wearing a welding hood or helmet is the safest method to protect yourself from these welding dangers. There are also available welding hoods and helmets in the market that can hide your hair and keep your head cool while you work with its built-in fans.

3. Use heat protection spray before welding

Using a heat-resistant hairspray will keep your hair in place while also protecting against the hazardous substances produced by welding. 

4. Use gentle hair products after welding

Shampoo your hair with gentle products after working with a welding torch to remove any oil or metal particles from your scalp that may have been picked up from working throughout the day.

5. Invest in a good bandana

Wrap it around your head to conceal your hair. This method will keep your hair out of your face while protecting it from sparks.

6. Tuck your hair in a welding cap

A welding cap is the best item we can recommend if you want to keep your hair protected. There's no risk of your long hair becoming stuck in the welding equipment or coming into contact with hot metal. If you're concerned about appearing like a dork, it's totally fine. Everyone who welds understands that function comes first.

No More Catching Flame With Welding Hats for Long Hair

a welder wearing a welder caps for long hair

Welding caps are not just another silly fashion trend in the welding industry. Instead, they serve as safety purposes to prevent ourselves and dangers. 

If you're not familiar with this covering, welding hats, also known as welding caps, are essential personal protective equipment for welders that protect the face and head from toxic chemicals and heat welding hazards. It is like a baseball cap with a long built-in flap that covers the ear and neck against UV rays, hot metals, flames, or ignition.

This welding gear is made from flame-resistant material that can withstand sparks and flames throughout the welding process so that you can focus on the task at hand. Plus, it is made from heavy-duty cotton or denim that facilitates airflow around your head to keep you cool while you're in the workplace.

Unlike traditional hats, a welding cap is snug to wear, and it comes with a band that goes around the back of your head to keep it from blowing off in the wind. So even welders with shorter hair can benefit from the extra comfort. Finally, welding caps for long hair come in various colors and patterns, from bright orange to sleek black. Of course, many welders prefer to match their welding cap to their welding helmet, but it ultimately boils down to your preference.

Either way, these caps all serve the same basic purpose: keeping you safe and comfortable while welding. So If you're wondering whether welding hats are worth wearing, the answer is a resounding yes!

The Takeaway

Long hair can be beautiful, but it also comes with some risks. Keep these welding safety tips in mind and keep your locks safe. If you're looking for a welding item that can protect you, a welding cap for long hair might be the one for you. With the right safety gear in place, you can feel confident while you work.

At Welding Buddy, we want you to be safe while welding, including protecting your long hair from sparks and other flying debris. Explore our website for more tips on staying safe while welding. As always, if you have any questions or need help finding the right gear for your needs, don't hesitate to reach out to us.

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