PPE/General/TBT-PPE-012

Welding PPE Requirements

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Welding PPE Requirements

Toolbox Talk Record

Ref: TBT-PPE-012  |  Issue: 1  |  Date: March 2026
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What?

  • Welding produces extreme heat, UV radiation, sparks, fumes, and molten metal spatter.
  • Correct PPE selection depends on the welding process, material, and working environment.
  • A welding helmet with the correct shade lens is essential to prevent arc eye injuries.
  • Auto-darkening helmets must be tested before each use to ensure the sensor functions.
  • Flame-resistant clothing made from leather or treated cotton protects against sparks and spatter.
  • Welding gauntlets must be long enough to protect wrists and forearms from burns.
  • Respiratory protection may be required where local exhaust ventilation is insufficient.
  • Safety boots with metatarsal guards protect feet from falling hot metal and sparks.
  • Workers nearby also need protection — welding screens or curtains must shield bystanders.
  • PPE alone is the last line of defence and must be used alongside engineering controls.

Why?

Prevent burnsMolten metal spatter and radiant heat can cause severe burns to exposed skin within seconds.
Protect eyesightUV radiation from the welding arc causes arc eye (photokeratitis) and long-term retinal damage without correct lens shade.
Lung healthWelding fumes contain hazardous metal oxides and gases that cause occupational asthma and lung disease.
Do Don't
  • Select a welding helmet with the correct shade number for the process used
  • Test auto-darkening helmets before each welding session to confirm function
  • Wear flame-resistant clothing that covers all exposed skin fully
  • Use leather welding gauntlets that extend to cover the forearms
  • Wear safety boots with metatarsal protection and heat-resistant soles
  • Use respiratory protection where fume extraction does not control exposure
  • Erect welding screens to protect other workers from arc flash exposure
  • Inspect all welding PPE before each use and replace damaged items
  • Store PPE in a clean dry area away from oil, grease, and contaminants
  • Ensure ear protection is worn if noise levels exceed 85 dB during grinding
  • DON'T weld without a helmet — even brief arc exposure damages eyesight
  • DON'T wear synthetic clothing near welding as it melts onto skin
  • DON'T use damaged or cracked welding lenses that reduce UV protection
  • DON'T rely on sunglasses or tinted safety glasses instead of a welding helmet
  • DON'T leave skin exposed — wear full-coverage clothing with no gaps
  • DON'T ignore fume exposure because you cannot see or smell it clearly
  • DON'T allow bystanders to watch welding without eye protection
  • DON'T use wet or oil-contaminated gloves near the welding arc
  • DON'T tuck trouser legs into boots — sparks can enter and cause burns
  • DON'T continue using PPE that is burnt through, torn, or degraded

See also: Welding Safety | UV Radiation and Arc Eye Prevention
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