When welding, PPE such as safety glasses, goggles, welding helmets and / or welding face shields must be worn. Equipment must have filter lenses with a shade number that provides appropriate protection. The higher the shade number, the darker the filter. OSHA provide tables that list minimum protective lens shade numbers for commonly used welding processes. In selecting the best shade for the job, the lens should provide an accurate view of the puddle to check that you are achieving a quality weld.
A complete and effective eye safety plan when welding should start with a review of the area where the welding will take place. Consider the risk of fire and explosions. There should be no hazards in the area which can cause tripping. When you have a welding helmet on your vision is severely limited, so you want the area to be as obstruction free as possible.
If the area will be inhabited by workers other than the welder, you should isolate the welding area by putting up protective curtains. Reflective surfaces should also be covered.
In addition to wearing the proper eye protection, welders should also wear gloves and clothing that will protect them from UV radiation. If a flash burn does occur, the person affected should be given immediate treatment.