Keep Safety A Priority: Select The Right Welding Helmet
Posted on: 22 September 2019
A welding helmet is critical to your safety, and it's one piece of equipment you don't want to overlook. However, the lack of a helmet isn't the only factor that can put your safety in jeopardy; the wrong helmet can be equally problematic.
Weight
Hold the helmet in your hand and try it on. A common, yet overlooked, concern is helmets that are too heavy. A heavier helmet may cause strain, but more importantly, it can be a distraction. The fatigue caused by straining to hold the helmet up can cause you to lose some of your focus, which can introduce plenty of hazards. A lightweight helmet is always ideal.
Range of View
Ensure the helmet offers a full range of view. You do not want to select a helmet that has a limited range of view. The ideal helmet has a viewing area that also allows you to see clearly above and below the working area, as well as on each side. In addition to helping you monitor any hazards that might be in the area, the more you can see, the more precisely you can work.
Sensors
A high-end feature that is well worth the investment are sensors. Helmets with this feature typically have at least four sensors that are designed to help you stay in the correct welding position, even as flashes of light sometimes deter your view. In some units, the sensors can even detect your angles through any obstructions that might also be in the way, such as another piece of metal.
Power Detection
Ensure the helmet has a feature that allows you to monitor its power level. The majority of helmets are powered by three main options, standard battery, rechargeable battery, and solar. If the helmet does not have a power detection feature, the helmet's power could deplete while you're in the middle of a job. A detection panel lets you monitor its power level and recharge it as necessary to avoid this type of problem.
Auto Darkening
The burst of light generated during the welding process can cause a condition known as flash burn and other vision issues. Even worse, is that these light bursts sometimes seemingly come out of nowhere. This type of helmet automatically adjusts based on the intensity of the light to protect your eyes, so that you're never left with too little protection.
Welding can be an incredibly dangerous task, so make sure you have a helmet that is designed with the utmost level of safety in mind, a well as other welding supplies.
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