Safety magazine | Amedeo Caporrino

When designing welding safety programs, the attention of HSE managers and employers is often focused on the most visible hazards: molten metal spatter, sparks, and contact heat. However, there is another danger that is just as harmful as it is invisible and is frequently underestimated from a regulatory standpoint: Artificial Optical Radiation (AOR) emitted by the electric arc. The welding arc generates UV and IR radiation that is invisible to the human eye but highly dangerous for operators. These emissions can cause photochemical damage to both the eyes and skin, resulting in skin erythema similar to severe sunburn within seconds of exposure. Ensuring operational continuity and preventing serious occupational diseases requires the use of certified PPE engineered with materials capable of shielding these specific wavelengths. The Invisible Hazards of Welding: Ultraviolet (UV) and Infrared (IR) Radiation As discussed in our analysis of different welding processes and the selection of heat-resistant gloves, each welding technology (MIG/MAG, TIG, and Stick Welding) involves different levels of thermal and mechanical stress. However, the generation of harmful radiation is a common factor across all arc welding processes and can be divided into two main risk categories: Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation: UV radiation is responsible for both immediate and cumulative photochemical reactions. At the ocular level, it can cause painful inflammation of the cornea, commonly known as “arc eye” or “welder’s flash.” On the skin, even a few seconds of unprotected exposure can produce erythema comparable to severe sunburn. Over time, cumulative exposure increases the risk of cataracts and skin cancer. Infrared (IR) Radiation: Although IR radiation generates perceptible heat, it also consists of invisible wavelengths capable of penetrating deep into ocular and skin tissues. This spectrum can cause structural thermal damage and deep burns while accelerating cellular deterioration and premature skin aging. To neutralize these threats, a generic physical barrier is not enough. Both skin and eyesight must be protected by certified PPE whose protection factor and transmission scale have been rigorously tested and guaranteed by the manufacturer. Complementary Risk Factors: Fumes, Gases, and Optical Radiation An effective risk assessment must recognize that the electric arc never acts alone. During welding operations, the thermal decomposition of base materials, fluxes, and shielding gases generates a combination of simultaneous hazards, including toxic welding fumes, exhaust gases, and airborne particulates. Protecting operators therefore requires a holistic and integrated approach in which body protection works in synergy with facial and respiratory protection equipment: Combined Face and Eye Protection: welding helmets and face shields should be equipped with auto-darkening filters compliant with EN 279 or suitable passive filters capable of blocking intense visible light and optical radiation, thereby preventing photokeratitis. Respiratory Protection: welding fumes contain metallic oxides such as iron, manganese, and chromium. Protection requires localized extraction systems or advanced respiratory protection such as FFP3 filtering facepieces and powered air-purifying respirators (PAPR) integrated into welding helmets to prevent chronic respiratory diseases. The Safety Intersection: an advanced welding helmet protects the eyes from UV/IR radiation and the lungs from fumes, but it may still leave the neck and throat exposed to reflected radiation if it is not properly integrated with a high-collar protective jacket. True safety is achieved only when there are no exposed gaps between the different PPE components in use. Welding PPE Standards: How to Verify Certified Materials Effective risk prevention requires complete coverage. Company-issued protective equipment should comply with the relevant European PPE standards. Protective Clothing for Welding (ISO 11611) Ordinary cotton workwear provides no shielding capability and may ignite or allow harmful radiation to penetrate. As highlighted in our article on the essential role of welding jackets, both garment design and coverage are critical. From a materials perspective, jackets, aprons, and sleeves made from high-quality split leather or flame-resistant technical fabrics compliant with ISO 11611 effectively block radiation and prevent UV and IR rays from damaging the skin. Protective Gloves for Welders (EN 12477) Hands and arms are the body parts closest to the radiation source and electric arc. Welding gloves must be certified according to EN 12477. This certification guarantees consistent thermal insulation and radiation resistance over time while dividing gloves into two application categories: Type A Welding Gloves Provide enhanced thermal and mechanical protection. They are strongly recommended for MIG/MAG and Stick Welding applications, where arc intensity and radiation levels are particularly high. Type B Welding Gloves Provide superior dexterity and flexibility. They are the recommended standard for TIG welding, where maximum tactile sensitivity is required while maintaining effective protection against UV and IR radiation. Choosing High-Quality Materials: A Strategic Decision Relying on uncertified solutions or low-quality materials exposes companies to a dual risk: non-compliance with health and safety regulations and increased absenteeism caused by injuries or chronic occupational diseases. The certified materials used in Coval Safety PPE ensure that the declared shielding performance and transmission ratings are both effective and durable. Investing in high-quality PPE means protecting workers from immediate thermal hazards as well as cumulative radiation exposure, while also improving product durability and optimizing long-term operating costs. Protect Your Team from Welding Hazards Safety in fabrication shops and foundries requires reliable solutions that comply with the most demanding standards. Don’t let radiation and welding fumes compromise your company’s productivity and workforce health. Explore our range of welding gloves and protective clothing. Discover EN 12477 and ISO 11611 certified products designed specifically for welding professionals.

Our Authors

Amedeo Caporrino

UV and IR Protection in Welding: The Importance of Certified PPE

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