Management and Protection for Post-Arc Welding Eye Irritation (ARC Eye)

When dealing with welding and particularly arc welding, eye protection is of utmost importance. Severe eye irritation resulting from arc welding, which is commonly referred to as arc eye, can be a painful and debilitating experience. In this article, we will discuss the proper management and protection procedures for arc eye, as well as an overview of the materials used in protective welding goggles.

Treatment and Management of ARC Eye

The pain associated with arc eye can be intense and varied, ranging from a burning sensation to a feeling of having sand in the eyes. While some suggestions for treatment might seem outlandish, it's crucial to follow the advice of medical professionals. Personally, I have endured pain from various sources, but having my corneas burned by an arc flash is one of the worst experiences I've ever encountered. Doctors advised me to use a cool, wet rag in a completely dark environment to alleviate the irritation.

Educational materials regarding arc eye not only highlight the discomfort but also emphasize the serious possibility of blindness. I strongly advise wearing dark glasses and using eye drops to manage the symptoms and prevent potential long-term damage. Seeking the help of an eye doctor is essential to ensure proper treatment and care.

Welding Goggles and Lens Materials

Welding safety goggles are indispensable protective gear for welders. These goggles shield the welder from various hazards such as shrapnel, ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) light, and intense bright light. Failure to protect against these hazards can lead to temporary or permanent blindness. Lens materials used in these safety goggles must be hard-coated and anti-scratch to ensure maximum durability.

Welding goggles must comply with certain standards set by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). These standards include the appropriate lens shade for specific welding operations. For instance, OSHA 29CFR1910.133 outlines the necessary eye and face protection requirements. This ensures that the welder can perform their job safely without additional risks.

Polycarbonate Lenses

Polycarbonate is the modern material of choice in protective lens manufacture. These lenses are more durable, thinner, and lighter than regular plastic lenses. They offer superior UV protection and are ten times more impact resistant than ordinary glass lenses. This material, which was first developed in the 1970s for space-related programs, has since been adapted for use in welding goggles.

To provide optimal protection, polycarbonate lenses are often hard-coated to increase their impact resistance and treated with the appropriate shade to handle the bright light emitted by an electric arc weld. Glass lenses, the original choice, have limitations such as being heavy, thick, and expensive when compared to polycarbonate lenses. They are also less impact-resistant and more expensive to scratch-proof.

Nylon Lenses

Nylon lenses, characterized by their moisture absorbency, are another material used in lens manufacture. They are known for their high impact resistance and thermal resistance, making them scratch-resistant. However, all materials used in protective welding goggles must undergo rigorous testing to ensure compliance with OSHA and ANSI standards. These stringent testing protocols help maintain the highest possible level of safety for welders.

Conclusion

Managing and protecting oneself from arc eye is crucial for both short-term comfort and long-term eye health. Following professional advice and using appropriate welding goggles made from materials like polycarbonate can significantly reduce the risk of eye damage. By prioritizing safety and wearing protective gear correctly, welders can minimize the risk of arc eye and other hazardous conditions.