Whether you have an avid welding hobby or are a professional, safety should always be a top priority. The combination of high heat, fumes, and harsh light creates a potentially dangerous workspace, so it’s up to the individual to take every possible precaution to avoid an accident. Any smart and savvy welder knows to complete a project safely, there are a number of tools they need to have on hand. 

3 Safety Tools Every Welder Needs

1. Eye & Face Protection

Working with hot metals and fumes exposes your eyes and face to toxins and fumes that can wreak havoc on your sight and skin. To keep yourself protected while maintaining visibility, you’ll need the proper eye and face gear. Start with a helmet that protects your neck and head from flyaway sparks and radiation. Then, find safety glasses or goggles that will allow you to see clearly and cut precisely while keeping your eyes safe. 

2. Hand & Foot Protection

Purchasing high-quality, heat-resistant gloves is an excellent way to ensure you can do your job meticulously while keeping your hands burn-free. The same rule applies to your feet, as welding often produces sparks that can topple down from your workspace onto your toes. Wearing leather or flame-resistant boots will allow you to work continuously, comfortably, and without the risk of sustaining burns.

3. Body Armor 

Once you have covered your extremities, it’s time to protect your core. Start with a welding apron that covers both your chest and legs. Then, add a treated cotton or leather jacket to protect your arms while you weld. Welding jackets are designed to be lightweight and durable so you can move easily and quickly. Depending on the type of work you do, a cotton one may allow for more range of motion, while a leather option provides greater protection from heat and flames. 

Welders in Waynesboro, Charlottesville, and Harrisonburg, VA, look to the team at Wayne Oxygen & Welding Supply for everything they need to do their job safely. Since 1959, they’ve supplied high-quality tools and materials as well as personal gear to promote responsible, reliable craftsmanship. Whether you’re looking to buy a jacket or helmet or would like to rent a piece of equipment to finish a project, they have what you need at a reasonable price. For more help, go online or call (540) 942-4145.