The Well-Dressed Welder

Being properly dressed for welding is one of the most effective ways to prevent injuries from heat, sparks, molten metal, UV radiation, fumes, and electrical hazards. Every part of the body should be protected with suitable Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

Head & Face Protection

• Wear an approved welding helmet with the correct shade lens for the welding process.
• Ensure the helmet is free from cracks or damage.
• Use an auto-darkening helmet where appropriate.
• Wear a welding cap or flame-resistant skull cap beneath the helmet to protect the scalp and ears.
• Keep long hair tied back and fully covered.

Eye Protection

• Wear safety glasses with side shields under the welding helmet at all times.
• Use appropriate eye protection when grinding, cutting, or chipping slag.
• Ensure lenses are clean and free from scratches.

Hearing Protection

• Wear ear plugs or ear defenders in noisy environments.
• Use hearing protection to prevent sparks and hot metal entering the ear canal.
• Inspect hearing protection regularly for damage.

Respiratory Protection

• Ensure adequate ventilation in the work area.
• Use local fume extraction whenever possible.
• Wear a suitable respirator when welding materials that produce hazardous fumes.
• Follow guidance for confined-space welding operations.

Hand Protection

• Wear welding gloves designed for the specific welding process.
• Ensure gloves are flame-resistant and free from holes or excessive wear.
• Use gloves that provide both heat protection and sufficient dexterity.
• Keep gloves dry to reduce electrical risks.

Body Protection

• Wear flame-resistant welding jackets, coveralls, or leather aprons.
• Ensure clothing fully covers the torso, arms, and legs.
• Fasten collars, cuffs, and pockets to prevent sparks becoming trapped.
• Replace damaged or heavily contaminated garments.

Arm Protection

• Use leather sleeves or arm protectors when additional protection is required.
• Ensure sleeves overlap gloves without leaving exposed skin.

Leg Protection

• Wear full-length, flame-resistant trousers without turn-ups or cuffs.
• Avoid trousers with open pockets that can collect sparks.
• Ensure trouser legs cover the tops of boots.

Foot Protection

• Wear safety boots with steel or composite toe protection.
• Use heat-resistant, slip-resistant footwear.
• Choose boots with metatarsal protection where necessary.
• Avoid trainers, lightweight shoes, or exposed footwear.
• Keep boot tops covered by trouser legs to prevent sparks entering.

Clothing Safety Rules

• Avoid synthetic fabrics such as polyester and nylon that can melt onto the skin.
• Choose flame-resistant cotton, leather, or specialist welding garments.
• Remove oil, grease, solvents, and other flammable contaminants from clothing.
• Ensure clothing fits correctly—not too loose and not too tight.
• Remove jewellery, watches, rings, bracelets, and necklaces before welding.

Electrical Safety Considerations

• Keep clothing and gloves dry.
• Avoid working in wet conditions whenever possible.
• Inspect cables and equipment before use.
• Use insulated PPE where required.

General PPE Checks

• Inspect all PPE before each use.
• Replace damaged or worn equipment immediately.
• Ensure all PPE complies with relevant safety standards.
• Store PPE in a clean, dry location.
• Follow site-specific PPE requirements and risk assessments.

Before Striking an Arc

✓ Helmet on and functioning correctly
✓ Safety glasses fitted
✓ Gloves in good condition
✓ Flame-resistant clothing fully fastened
✓ No exposed skin
✓ Safety boots secured
✓ Respiratory protection available if required
✓ Hearing protection fitted where necessary
✓ Work area safe and well ventilated

A properly dressed welder is not only safer but also more comfortable, productive, and professional on the job.