(888) 830-7678
There is no debating the vital role that welding plays in our lives. Despite its critical benefits, welding brings health risks that can be terminal.
In the United States, over half a million workers are exposed to welding-related health and safety risks each year.
Welding protective gear safeguards employees from welding hazards. Welders are required to wear protective gear and have safety training.
Training typically involves inspecting welding equipment and ensuring workers understand safety precautions before welding.
This article will discuss the importance of wearing protective gear while welding.
Why do Welders Need Protective Gear?
Welding fumes constitute the primary health hazard in welding operations. Individuals performing manual metal arc (MMA) and metal inert gas (MIG) welding are at high risk.
The fumes produced from the welding wire or rod consist of fine particles of metal oxides.
The composition of these fumes depends on the metal used. Mild steel tends to generate a large volume of iron oxide with a small composition of manganese. Fumes from stainless steel are highly hazardous because of their high nickel and chromium VI oxide content.
Long-term exposure to manganese can deliver a lethal blow to your nervous system. Fortunately for welders, they have access to welding safety gear that can protect their neck, eyes, and face from these gases.
What Kind of Welding Protective Gear do Welders Use/Need?
For head and face protection, welders are required to wear helmets and masks to prevent burns from molten metal or sparks. By wearing auto-darkening lenses and helmets, workers can prevent irreparable and immediate damage to their eyes.
Glasses are also vital welding safety gear, especially when dealing with scenarios that may be challenging in a helmet. Wearing safety glasses can be used for certain torch-cutting and plasma jobs.
At ETI School of Skilled Trades, we recommend the Miller Electric Shade 5.0 Welding Safety Glasses.
Respirators are another component of welding gear. This mask protects against harmful fumes. The zinc and magnesium emanating from heated metals can cause lung cancer, hearing loss, and asthma. When you are picking your welder gear, quality should be on your priority list.
This is because your hands, chest, and arms are in the direct line of molten slag and hot sparks. Welders can prevent burns by wearing a welding apron or a jacket with gloves.
Where Can a Welder Get Training?
Are you looking to develop your skills as a professional welder in an institution with state-of-the-art equipment and trained experts? ETI School of Skilled Trades has a welding program that will train you in this field. In just seven months, you can become a skilled welder.
Enroll at ETI today to get started on your future.
Learn more about Weldiong Career:
English 
Spanish