In this article we would like to go into more detail about the importance of proper welding clothing. There are many dangers involved in welding that are often neglected, especially by welders in the private sector.
We have already mentioned the greatest dangers here and there you will find a good tip on how to avoid many things.
But this alone is not enough. Protective clothing must meet the requirements. Just as the policeman must wear his police uniform… so must the welder wear his welding clothes.
The focus here is on “must”, because many people like to become a bit frivolous in this respect, even though it is the only thing that stands between you and the heat, sparks and radiation.
The large selection of welding clothing at a glance.
So that you know directly what there is in welding clothing. In addition, we give some more detailed information about what the appropriate welding clothing protects against and a few tips on what to look out for before buying. Let’s get started.
Welder’s jacket, trousers and apron
Welding involves exposure to enormous heat, flames, flying sparks, arcing and iron splashes. In addition, there are also hazards that cannot be seen, such as UV rays.
A welder’s jacket and trousers protects your skin from these dangers and prevents serious burns. It is best that you always wear this welding clothing. Depending on the situation, you can also wear a welding apron as an alternative or as a supplement. It depends on the welding process. It protects very well against burn holes.
Purchase tip: For all three components leather is recommended as the material. The front side should preferably have a safety button so that nothing will jump up when you work. The welding trousers should comply with the protection regulations DIN EN 470-1 and DIN EN 531.
Also make sure that the trousers fit exactly. Welder’s trousers are very inelastic and lie close to the body. If the welder’s trousers are not the right size, this quickly affects the wearing comfort
Welding boots and gaiters
Welders’ clothing also includes welding boots and gaiters. Welding boots protect you from specific hazards that arise from the bonding of metal or polymers during welding. The gaiters can be used in addition. They additionally protect the leg up to the knees against metal splashes.
Purchase tip: The welding shoes differ from their heat resistance. Choose a shoe that is resistant to high temperatures. Also ideally look for a steel toe cap and steel midsole.
A safety quick-release fastener should also be provided. In addition to the European standard EN ISO the standard EN ISO 20349 should be given.
The welder’s gaiters should be best attached to the shin with a clamping spring. The welder’s clothing is then easy to put on and can also be easily removed again.
Welding gloves and hood
The gloves are particularly important for welding clothing. The hands are always close to the action and are therefore most exposed to sparks and radiation during welding. A hood provides extra neck protection and shields you from the heat and sparks.
Purchase tip: Look for the GS seal when buying welding gloves. This shows that it is safety-tested, the production is monitored and tested for harmful substances. We also recommend material made of nappa leather or other breathable materials.
The hood should have a soft inner lining and preferably be made of sweat absorbing material. A velcro fastener with which it can also be attached to the helmet would also be an advantage.
Safety helmet or shield
This is an essential part of welding clothing. Which one is most suitable for you depends on your job. You must always hold the welding shield in your hand and therefore it is sometimes unsuitable for autogenous welding processes. We generally recommend a welding helmet. So you always have both hands free for welding.
If you want to get off cheaply, then a protective shield is worth considering.
Buying tip: When buying a welding helmet you should pay attention to a darkened visor and a large field of vision. In addition, the welding helmet should offer you individual adjustment possibilities with regard to light sensitivity and the darkening level.
The time for darkening also plays a very important role here. A speed of 0.00004 sec (1/25000) is still okay. The faster the better. The welding helmet should also be tested and certified. If in doubt, always send a copy of the certificate.
Safety goggles and welding protection glass
The safety glasses protect you from UV rays and bright scattered light. The welding protection glass protects your eyes like an automatic safety helmet and is integrated into a welding protection shield e
Important note: Please note that different levels of protection are available for safety glasses and different levels of darkness for safety lenses. Both have to be adapted to the eyes and the area of work as well as the welding process. For higher protection levels a welding helmet is required.
The dark levels of protective glass range from DIN 8 to DIN 14 and the choice depends on which welding method you use and the current intensity you are welding with. In case of doubt, always use the darker level.
This was the rough overview of the welding clothing that can be purchased. Now you should be able to decide for yourself what you can possibly do without and what is absolutely necessary. Hands and eyes should be protected in all cases.
We hope that the article has helped you and wish you a lot of fun with the selection of the optimal welding clothing.