Wearing personal protective gear is a crucial part of welding safely. Just as you need to be well-trained, use modern equipment to reduce electrocution risk, and make sure the project area is well-ventilated, you must use the right gear for full protection. Here are five pieces of personal protective equipment you should use when welding.

Boots

Welding boots are designed to survive electrical current, heat, and impact. They should have a reinforced toe to withstand dropped metal pieces and metatarsal support to provide comfort since welding is usually done standing. Welding boots are usually made of sturdy leather or a composite that can withstand spattered molten metal. They may have a cover over the laces to prevent them from burning.

Gloves

Welding gloves allow you to touch hot metal items that have just been welded, and they prevent hand and arm injuries from metal spatter. They also provide skin protection from welding-related UV rays, which don’t cause immediate harm but can cause burns in the hours following a welding session. UV burns are painful, can cause missed work, and increase skin cancer risk.

Helmet

A welding helmet protects your face and eyes from UV rays and heat. Choose a helmet that offers a clear view with good brightness and color contrast. It should also be comfortable and have a built-in respirator or room under the visor to wear one. Some of these, like Speedglas ADFLO helmets, are more durable than others, so be sure to do your research when buying. While some people don’t wear a welding helmet when tacking or doing a short bead, it’s best to wear yours during every session to prevent eye and skin damage.

Respirator

If your helmet doesn’t have a built-in respirator, consider wearing a separate one to make breathing easier and protect yourself from carcinogens. They have filters that remove harmful gasses and debris from the air and can be connected to a hose that brings in fresh air. Make sure your respirator is designed for the materials you’ll be working with and the environment where you’ll be welding.

Jacket

To protect your arms and torso, you need a jacket that’s resistant to fire, heat, and spattering. Most welding jackets are leather and provide neck protection too. Some people wear everyday coveralls or uniforms when welding, but sparks or spatter can go inside these garments through neck and arm openings and cause burns. Some safety organizations don’t consider a welding safety gear set complete without a jacket.

Welding can be a risky business, but it doesn’t have to be. When you’re well-trained, follow safety procedures and wear protective gear covering the parts of your body that would normally be exposed, you can weld safely. That means you can get home to your family unharmed.