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Welding Eye Protection

Arc welding gives off intense light that can injure eyes quickly, even from a distance and even for people who are not welding. Proper lenses and hoods are required, not optional.

Why is welding light such a concern?

The arc produces bright visible light and invisible radiation that can burn the surface of the eye. The injury is often painful and shows up hours after the exposure, when it feels like sand in the eyes. Repeated exposure can cause longer-term problems.

Because of this, welders and anyone nearby need protection that is made for the process being used.

The injury is often called flash burn or arc eye. It is easy to prevent and painful to have, which is why shop rules about eye protection should be non-negotiable.

What kind of protection is used?

Welding helmets or hoods with the correct filter lens are standard. The right shade depends on the process and the current, and the helmet maker and official standards guide the choice. This site does not give shade numbers. Check OSHA's eye and face protection pages, the helmet's manual and your welding equipment instructions.

Auto-darkening helmets are common. They still need to be the right type, in working order and set properly.

Check your helmet's labeling and the manual to confirm it is made for the process you use. Different processes, such as stick, wire-feed and cutting, may call for different lens choices.

• Helmet or hood with the correct filter
• Safety glasses underneath
• Appropriate gloves and clothing
• Screens or curtains for bystanders
• Check helmet markings for the process
• Cover lenses kept clean

Do I need glasses under the helmet?

Many welders wear safety glasses under the helmet because it protects them from grinding debris when the helmet is flipped up, and from flying slag. Chipping slag and grinding welds call for a face shield and eye protection.

Do not weld in sunglasses, and do not look at an arc with bare eyes, even briefly.

Flip-up lenses and cover lenses make it easier to see your work between welds, but only while the arc is off. Do not strike an arc with the lens up or the helmet raised.

What about people nearby?

Bystanders can be hurt by flash from a distance. Use screens, curtains or barriers, warn others before striking an arc and keep children and animals away. Anyone who helps must wear proper protection.

Check the area for reflective surfaces that bounce light. Plan the work so that people do not walk in unexpectedly.

Mark a clear welding zone in the shop and post a sign. Visitors and kids should know to stay out and never to look toward the light, even for a moment.

• Screens or curtains around the work
• Warn others before striking an arc
• Keep children and animals out
• Check for reflective surfaces
• Helpers wear the same protection

How should I care for the helmet and lenses?

Keep lenses clean and replace cover lenses when they are pitted or scratched. Check the helmet for cracks and loose parts, and test auto-darkening lenses as the maker advises. Replace batteries or the lens as directed.

Store the helmet where it will not be crushed or hit. Follow the manual for any sensor or setting checks.

Keep a log of when cover lenses and batteries were replaced and who checked the helmet. It is a simple habit and helps when several people share equipment.

• Check for cracks and loose parts
• Replace pitted cover lenses
• Test auto-darkening as directed
• Store away from impact

What if someone gets flashed?

Eye pain after exposure to welding light needs medical attention. Call a doctor or urgent care, and call 911 in an emergency. Do not try to treat it yourself.

Learn first aid through the Red Cross or a recognized course, and make sure everyone who welds knows how to get help from the work area.

Welding on farm equipment often happens in the field. The same rules apply there, and wind, dry grass and fuel add fire concerns that need extra planning.

• Eye pain hours after welding
• Gritty feeling in the eyes
• Light sensitivity or tearing

Where can I get training and rules?

OSHA publishes information about welding hazards and eye protection, and extension programs and community colleges offer welding safety courses. Ask about hot work, ventilation and fire safety as well, since welding involves fire and fume hazards.

If you employ welders, confirm what rules apply with OSHA and your insurer.

Last reviewed: November 12, 2026. Written by the Farm Safety Editorial Team. See our editorial policy.