How to Choose a Welding Helmet

For small business owners or contractors involved in welding operations, safety is critical and must always be the top priority. Welding poses a number of serious hazards—especially to the eyes and face—due to the intense light, heat, and sparks generated during the process. Whether you're managing a team or working on your own, investing in the right welding helmet is essential to protect yourself and your workers. In this comprehensive guide, we'll provide you with valuable tips on buying welding helmets that meet OSHA standards to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone on your team.

OSHA Standards

OSHA requires employers with welding operations to provide helmets that meet the ANSI Z87.1 standard, which ensures proper protection against optical radiation, impact, and heat. In addition, all welding helmets must have a proper shade level appropriate for the welding process being performed.

Types of Welding Helmets

When it comes to choosing a welding helmet, there are a number of types and styles that can provide the right amount of welding protection for the type of welding you do.  

For example, you'll need to decide whether to choose a helmet with a passive lens (fixed shade) or auto-darkening lens. This will depend on both your preferences and the welding processes you perform. Welders who work with different processes often prefer helmets with adjustable auto-darkening filters, while welders in dynamic light conditions may prefer a passive lens. It's also important to consider the number of light sensors in the helmet to ensure consistent and reliable functioning.

Passive Welding Helmets Auto-Darkening Welding Helmets
Passive Welding Helmet Auto-Darkening Welding Helmet
These helmets are lighter but do not have an automatic or adjustable lens. As a result, your work may appear dark when you are using them, and you may need to remove the helmet at times, presenting a possible safety concern. Auto-darkening welding helmets will darken your view automatically to protect your eyes from flashes, but can provide a lighter and clearer view (also automatically) that allows you to more easily view your work and environment without removing the helmet. For more information on lens shades and numbering, see the chart below.

 

Welding Helmet Lens Selection Chart

Lens shades for welding helmets are numbered and range from #9 to #13. The shade number denotes the amount of darkness provided by the lens, not the quality of protection. The appropriate shade should be chosen for the specific type of welding application. Use the chart below to match the proper lens shade number with the welding applications used in your workplace.

 

Other Considerations: Respiratory Equipment

Protecting your lungs is another crucial aspect of welding safety. Welding produces hazardous fumes and particles that can be harmful when inhaled. It is recommended that all welders wear a NIOSH N95-rated mask under their welding helmets to reduce exposure to dust and particles. For enhanced protection, many welders opt for powered air-purifying respirator (PAPR) units that attach to the welding helmet and provide a consistent flow of filtered air. Proper ventilation or fume extraction equipment should also be considered for the safety of your work environment.

Safety is critical in every job and workplace, and welding is no exception. There are a number of serious hazards that can result from improper safety practices in welding operations, ranging from blinding flashes of light to debris and respiratory issues. Fortunately, these issues can be mitigated by following the relevant OSHA guidelines and purchasing proper protective equipment, including welding helmets. If you're purchasing welding equipment for your team, use this article to guide your choice as you look to find the right helmets for your business.

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Product Compliance and Suitability

The product statements contained in this guide are intended for general informational purposes only. Such product statements do not constitute a product recommendation or representation as to the appropriateness, accuracy, completeness, correctness, or currentness of the information provided. Information provided in this guide does not replace the use by you of any manufacturer instructions, technical product manual, or other professional resource or adviser available to you. Always read, understand, and follow all manufacturer instructions.

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