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150-008-01-IADO © 2014, Workplace Safety & Prevention Services (WSPS)
1 877 494 WSPS (9777) | 905 614 1400 | www.wsps.ca
tailgate talks – eye Protection
Special protection needed when welding
The brilliance of a welding arc can permanently damage the naked eye. Always wear a helmet when
arc welding. The eyes, face, and neck need protection against the burning rays of the arc, and from the
splatter of molten metal and slag. To protect vision, make sure the welding helmet has a coloured lens
with at least a No. 10 shade when welding with 200 amperes or less. Darker shades are needed when
using higher currents. Consult your welder's instruction manual.
Never strike a welding arc before your helmet is in place. Never look at an arc from any distance with
naked eyes while someone else is welding.
Chipping slag
Never chip slag when your eyes (or those of others nearby) are not protected by goggles, an eye shield,
or the clear lens of a welding helmet. If fragments of hot slag were to hit the eye, medical attention
would be required for their removal, and blindness could result. The risk of permanent eye injury is
so great that you should never chip slag from a weld without protecting your eyes.
Oxyacetylene welders
Don't weld or use the cutting attachment unless you are wearing goggles. The lenses should be a No. 5
or 6 shade for welding and cutting, and a No. 3 or 4 shade for brazing.
Sun protection also important
In addition to increasing risk of skin cancer, prolonged exposure to the sun's ultraviolet rays can be
damaging to the eyes. Always wear sunglasses to protect your eyes while working outdoors.
Don't take your eyesight for granted!
Loss or impairment of vision would severely restrict job opportunities and reduce your general
enjoyment of life. Don't take chances with your eyesight! Put those safety glasses on, even if you "just
have to drill one hole."
Notes:
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