Welding is an extremely versatile process that has a wide range of use cases, from infrastructure and shipbuilding projects to home decor design and hobby development. However, no matter what purpose you are welding two or more metal workpieces together for, there is one crucial aspect that holds true across welding projects — head and eye protection is of paramount importance.
During the typical welding process, you may be exposed to ultraviolet radiation, infrared radiation, heat, dust, splatter and other debris. This is why it is advisable to always wear a welding helmet to ensure that your eyes and face are out of harm’s way. Speedglas welding helmet suit this need perfectly because they offer adequate head and eye protection in all kinds of welding environments.
Superior Welder Protection with Speedglas Welding Helmets
Speedglas welding helmets are designed keeping every welder’s requirements in mind. The first-ever auto-darkening lens and helmets in the Speedglas range were introduced in 1981. Since then, these products have been developed, modified and upgraded to meet the changing requirements of welders across the world.
Today, there are different categories of welding helmets you can choose from, such as regular auto-darkening welding helmets and welding respirator systems — which make use of Powered Air Purifying Respiratory Protection (PAPR) Systems to deliver fresh and filtered air to the welder continuously during intensive welding projects.
The superior protection offered by Speedglas welding helmets is not merely cursory; there is also statistical evidence of the effective protection these helmets offer. A study based in the US found that the incidence of eye injuries due to foreign bodies reduced by 70% year-on-year in areas that implemented PAPR Systems.
A Closer Look at How to Protect Your Eyes and Face with Speedglas Welding Helmets
Over the years, Speedglas welding helmets have set new standards for welding safety, functionality and comfort in the industry. Here is how you can use this versatile and trusted range of products to protect your eyes and face in your everyday welding job.
● Select the Right Welding Helmet
It is imperative to choose a welding helmet that meets safety standards and is appropriate for the type of welding you will be doing. Ideally, you must use helmets that comply with standards like ANSI Z87.1 (for eye protection) and ANSI Z89.1 (for head protection). Speedglas welding helmets meet all the essential regulatory welding requirements, so you can rest assured that you are getting the best protection there is.
● Choose the Right Lens Shade
Auto-darkening welding helmets come in different shades, with different levels of lens darkening. Different welding processes and environments require specific lens shades to protect your eyes from harmful ultraviolet and infrared radiation. So, check the manufacturer’s recommendations and use a Speedglas welding helmet with the appropriate lens shade for your welding project.
● Wear Safety Glasses Under the Helmet
While Speedglas welding helmets themselves provide adequate eye protection, it’s always a good practice to also wear welding safety glasses with side shields under the helmet for added protection against flying debris and sparks. This way, you can be doubly sure that your head and eyes are secured, particularly in highly chaotic welding environments.
● Secure the Helmet Properly
A securely adjusted helmet stays in place during welding, providing an unobstructed view while protecting your eyes and face from potential hazards. So, it is crucial to properly adjust your welding helmet’s headgear for both safety and comfort. Align the helmet correctly on your head, tighten the straps evenly for a snug fit, and ensure the lens is positioned properly in front of your eyes. Also, regularly check and maintain the headgear for consistent protection during welding.
● Cover All Exposed Skin
You also need to make sure that your Speedglas welding helmet provides full coverage for your face and neck. To this end, it helps if you wear flame-resistant clothing, like a welding jacket or a welding apron. This way, you can further protect your body from the heat, sparks and splatter radiated from the weld pool, and minimize the risk of burns.
● Maintain your Speedglas Welding Helmets Well
After your welding job is complete, you must store your Speedglas welding helmet in a dry and clean place that is away from direct sunlight. It is also essential to regularly clean the helmet’s lens and inspect it for any damage. In case you find there’s some degree of damage, you can get the parts replaced, if possible and necessary.
● Maintain a Proper Welding Posture
If welding PPE is half the story, your welding posture is the other. You need to position yourself correctly to avoid directly exposing your face and eyes to the welding arc. This will help reduce the risk of arc flash and eye injuries to a large degree, especially if you spend long hours in the welding workshop.
Conclusion
This sums up how you can adequately protect your eyes and face with the right Speedglas welding helmets. Make sure that you compare different models of welding helmets in the Speedglas PPE range, so you can find the helmet that suits your specific welding profile and requirements. You can even compare Speedglas welding helmet models online and make an informed choice from the comfort of your home.
