Head and Face Protection
Follow these guidelines for head and face protection:
Welding Helmets
- Helmets and hand shields must be made of a material that is an insulator for heat and electricity.
- Helmets, shields, and goggles must be not readily flammable and must be capable of withstanding sterilization.
- Arrange helmets and hand shields to protect the face, neck and ears from direct radiant energy from the arc.
- Provide helmets with filter plates and cover plates designed for easy removal.
- Construct all parts of a material that will not readily corrode or discolor the skin.
- Ventilate goggles to prevent fogging of the lenses as much as practicable.
- Temper all glass for lenses, substantially free from striae, air bubbles, waves and other flaws.
- The front and rear surfaces of lenses and windows must be smooth and parallel, expect when a lens is ground to provide proper optical correction for defective vision.
- Lenses must bear some permanent distinctive marking which may readily identify the source and shade.
The guide is used for the selection of the proper shade numbers. Employers can vary these recommendations to suit the individual's needs.
Proper Shade Numbers
NOTE: In gas welding or oxygen cutting where the torch produces a high yellow light, use a filter or lens that absorbs the yellow or sodium line in the visible light of the operation.
Filter lenses should meet the test for transmission of radiant energy prescribed by consensus standards.
Protection from Arc Welding Rays
Where the work permits, enclose the welder in an individual booth painted with a finish of low reflectivity such as zinc oxide and lamp black, or enclose the welder with noncombustible screens similarly painted.
- Booths and screens must permit circulation of air at floor level.
- Protect workers or other persons adjacent to the welding areas from the rays by non-combustible or flameproof screens or shields. If this is not possible, they must be required to wear appropriate goggles.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
6-2. Which body parts should helmets and hand shields protect against exposure to direct radiant energy?
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