HEALTH & SAFETY
CHOOSING WELDING HELMETS AND RESPIRATORY PROTECTION – PRIORITISING SAFETY OVER COST
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electing the right welding helmet and respiratory protection system is crucial
for protecting welders in high-risk environments. While cost may factor into decisions, the need for effective, high-quality protection should always come first. To help companies and welders
make informed decisions about PPE, Welding World spoke with Kemppi’s top safety experts, providing a wealth of experience in welding safety and bringing diverse expertise from across the industry, sharing key considerations for selecting welding helmets and respiratory protection systems that ensure worker safety.
The true value of safety: Why cost should never compromise PPE In organisations committed to safety, high-quality protection—not price— drives PPE decisions. Skimping on essential, high-risk PPE like welding helmets and respirators is not worth the potential danger. As Kemppi’s teams points out: “Cutting corners on high- risk PPE can be dangerous. Quality is
essential for keeping workers safe. Safety is priceless. The right equipment doesn’t just protect workers—it saves lives.” PPE is far more than an accessory; it’s a vital, potentially life-saving layer of protection against both immediate injuries and long-term health risks. While pricing expectations vary, PPE quality must remain high. Choose the most optimised protection level for your needs, and certifications such as EN12941 and TH3 classification are indicators of dependable quality and safety.
Key factors to consider when choosing a welding helmet Safety standards and task suitability: A welding helmet must meet safety standards while being tailored to the specific tasks at hand. The team emphasizes the importance of matching PPE to the job, noting: “The setup must protect against the hazards faced. Always check certifications and ensure the equipment is compliant with safety standards.” Adding that ADF filters should be notified-body-certified and offer top optical class ratings, ensuring optimal protection and clarity.
24 / WELDING WORLD MAGAZINE - ISSUE 01 - JANUARY 2025 Comfort and usability: Comfort
is essential, especially for welders wearing helmets for extended hours. The experts note that lightweight helmets help prevent fatigue and physical strain: “Comfort is critical — welders wear their helmets for hours. A heavy helmet can cause neck strain over time.” A well- balanced helmet with even weight distribution helps prevent neck and shoulder strain. For maximum comfort, they suggess looking for helmets in the range of around 500 to 600 grams (without PAPR). Technical features: Key features
make a significant difference in safety and usability. Kemppi recommends a flip-up visor for welders who frequently alternate between welding and grinding tasks, allowing them to stay protected without removing the helmet. Highlighting the importance of a Vision+ / true-color ADF, which enhances visibility when the filter is inactive, and adjustable ADF controls that don’t require removing the helmet. These features streamline the welding process while ensuring protection.
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