Welders' flash

Re: Welders' flash

The intense light associated with welding can cause damage to the retina of the eye, while infrared radiation may damage the cornea and result in the formation of cataracts. Invisible ultraviolet light (UV) can cause 'arc eye' or 'welders' flash' after even a brief exposure (less than one minute).

The symptoms of arc eye usually occur many hours after exposure to UV light, and include a feeling of sand or grit in the eye, blurred vision, intense pain, tearing, burning and headache.

It is also possible that the light will reflect off surrounding materials and burn co-workers who work nearby. About half of welders' flash injuries occur in co-workers who are not welding. Welders and cutters who continually work around UV radiation without proper protection can suffer permanent eye damage.

As part of your risk assessment, you should consider isolating the welding activity. This could be by using a separate room or by restricting access via a welder's curtain. If the circumstances are that co-workers will be in the vicinity of the activity, then you must ensure they have the full visor and eye protection required for welding to protect them against the hazards from the UV light.

Visit www.hse.gov.uk/fod/infodocs/668_25.pdf for a HSE guidance document on personal protective equipment (PPE) for welding and allied processes. It describes the standards and specifications required for all PPE when welding.

Anonymous | 15:34 07.09.2007| Report this answer as unsuitable