Category: Personal Protection Equipment

Welding Safety Glasses Guide 2025 | Shade Numbers, ANSI Z87.1 & UV Protection

Welding safety glasses protect against UV radiation, infrared light, and impact hazards during grinding and fabrication. Choosing the right glasses depends on process type, shade number, and ANSI Z87.1 certification—not just lens color.

ANSI Z87.1 Certification Requirements

Impact Protection Levels

Basic Impact (Z87) – Protects against low-velocity impact (1” steel ball at 150 ft/sec) – Suitable for: General shop work, light grinding, non-welding tasks

High Impact (Z87+) – Protects against high-velocity impact (1/4” steel ball at 150 ft/sec) – Required for: Welding, grinding, chipping, cutting – Marking: “Z87+” stamped on frame and lens

Side Shield Requirement: – All welding safety glasses must have side shields or wraparound design – Prevents spatter and debris from entering around lens edges

Shade Number Selection by Process

Process	Amperage Range	Shade Number	Lens Type
Oxy-fuel cutting	N/A	#3-#6	Fixed shade
TIG (GTAW)	10-50A	#8-#10	Fixed or auto-darkening
TIG (GTAW)	50-150A	#10-#12	Fixed or auto-darkening
MIG (GMAW)	60-160A	#10-#12	Fixed or auto-darkening
MIG (GMAW)	160-250A	#12-#14	Fixed or auto-darkening
Stick (SMAW)	60-160A	#10-#12	Fixed shade
Stick (SMAW)	160-250A	#12-#14	Fixed shade
Plasma cutting	20-40A	#4-#5	Fixed shade
Plasma cutting	40-80A	#5-#8	Fixed shade

Note: Safety glasses are supplemental protection worn under welding helmets or for indirect arc exposure (helper/observer).

Lens Types & Technologies

Fixed Shade Lenses

Pros: No batteries, consistent darkness, low cost
Cons: Single shade only, must swap lenses for different processes
Best for: Dedicated single-process work, backup glasses
Cost: $10-$30

Auto-Darkening Lenses

Pros: Adjustable shade range, no lens swapping
Cons: Battery replacement, higher cost
Shade range: Typically #5-#13
Reaction time: 0.0001-0.00004 seconds
Best for: Multi-process shops, frequent shade changes
Cost: $50-$150

Passive IR/UV Protection (Clear Lenses)

Function: Blocks UV and infrared without visible light darkening
Use case: Grinding, fabrication, indirect arc exposure (helper/observer)
Shade equivalent: #1.5-#2
Best for: Non-welding tasks requiring impact protection

UV & IR Protection Standards

UV Protection (200-400nm wavelength): – All welding lenses must block 99.9%+ UV radiation – Permanent damage occurs from unprotected UV exposure (arc eye/welder’s flash)

Infrared Protection (780nm-1mm wavelength): – Blocks heat radiation from welding arc – Prevents retinal damage and cataracts from prolonged exposure

Visible Light Transmission: – Shade #3: 14.3% transmission (light tint) – Shade #8: 0.58% transmission (moderate darkness) – Shade #12: 0.0018% transmission (very dark)

Lens Coatings & Features

Anti-Fog Coating

Purpose: Prevents condensation in humid environments or when wearing respirator
Best for: Summer welding, enclosed spaces, respirator use
Limitation: Coating wears off after 6-12 months

Anti-Scratch Coating

Purpose: Extends lens life in high-abrasion environments
Best for: Grinding, fabrication, production shops
Hardness rating: 4-6H pencil hardness (military spec MIL-PRF-32432)

Polarized Lenses

Purpose: Reduces glare from reflective surfaces (polished stainless, aluminum)
Best for: TIG welding on reflective materials
Limitation: Not necessary for carbon steel or general fabrication

Frame Styles & Fit

Wraparound Design

Coverage: Maximum side and peripheral protection
Best for: Grinding, cutting, high-spatter welding
Fit: Snug to face, minimal gap around edges

Over-the-Glass (OTG) Design

Purpose: Fits over prescription eyeglasses
Best for: Welders who wear corrective lenses
Limitation: Bulkier, may not fit all prescription frame sizes

Prescription Welding Glasses

Purpose: Combines corrective lenses with welding shade
Best for: Full-time welders who need vision correction
Cost: $150-$400 (requires optometrist fitting)

When to Wear Safety Glasses vs. Helmet

Safety Glasses (Supplemental Protection)

Grinding, cutting, or fabrication (no arc)
Indirect arc exposure (helper/observer 10+ feet from arc)
Under welding helmet as secondary protection
Oxy-fuel cutting or brazing (low UV output)

Welding Helmet (Primary Protection)

Direct arc exposure (TIG, MIG, stick, flux-core)
Primary welder performing arc welding
Required for all arc welding processes per OSHA 1910.252

OSHA Requirement: Safety glasses must be worn under welding helmets in environments with grinding, chipping, or multiple welding stations.

Common Mistakes

Using non-certified safety glasses for welding
Fashion sunglasses or non-Z87+ glasses don’t block UV/IR radiation. Result: arc eye (photokeratitis) and permanent retinal damage. Always verify Z87+ marking.

Wrong shade number for amperage
Shade #3 glasses for 150A MIG = retinal burn risk. Shade #12 for oxy-fuel cutting = can’t see work. Match shade to process and amperage.

Skipping safety glasses under helmet
Grinding debris or spatter can enter under helmet. OSHA requires safety glasses as secondary protection in multi-hazard environments.

Buying Checklist

✓ ANSI Z87+ certification marked on frame and lens
✓ Shade number matches process and amperage range
✓ UV/IR protection rated for welding (99.9%+ UV block)
✓ Side shields or wraparound design for peripheral protection
✓ Anti-fog coating if working in humid environments
✓ Anti-scratch coating for grinding/fabrication work
✓ Comfortable fit (no pressure points, secure without slipping)
✓ OTG design if wearing prescription glasses

December 5, 2025

Auto-Darkening Welding Helmet Buying Guide 2025 | Lens Speed, Shade Range & Standards

Auto-darkening helmets protect your eyes by switching from light to dark state when arc strikes. Choosing the right one depends on lens speed, shade range, viewing area, and certification—not brand hype.

Key Specifications

Reaction Time (Switching Speed)

Level	Speed	Decimal
Entry-level	1/3600 second	0.00028s
Mid-range	1/10000 second	0.0001s
Professional	1/25000 second	0.00004s

TIG welding requires faster response (1/20000s minimum) due to low-amperage arc initiation. MIG and stick work fine with 1/10000s.

Shade Range

Standard range: #9–#13
TIG-specific: #5–#13 (low-amp visibility)
Grinding mode: #3–#4 (light state)

AWS D1.1 requires minimum shade #10 for 60–160A stick welding, #11 for 160–250A, #12 for 250–550A.

Viewing Area

Size	Dimensions	Area
Compact	3.5” × 1.65”	6 sq in
Standard	3.93” × 2.36”	9.3 sq in
Wide-view	3.93” × 2.87”	11.3 sq in
Panoramic	4.25” × 3.25”	13.8 sq in

Larger viewing area improves peripheral awareness in tight spaces and multi-pass work.

Optical Clarity Rating (1/1/1/1 to 1/1/1/3)

Four numbers indicate: optical class / light diffusion / variations in luminous transmittance / angle dependence.

1/1/1/1 = highest clarity (minimal distortion)
1/1/1/2 = professional grade
1/1/1/3 = acceptable for general fabrication

Certification Requirements

ANSI Z87.1+ (High-Impact Rated)
Required for all industrial welding environments. Plus symbol (+) indicates high-velocity impact protection.

CSA Z94.3
Canadian standard equivalent to ANSI Z87.1+.

EN379
European standard covering optical class, switching time, and UV/IR protection.

Process-Specific Requirements

TIG (GTAW)

Reaction time: 1/20000s or faster
Shade range: #5–#13 (low-amp start visibility)
Sensitivity adjustment: Essential for low-amperage starts

MIG (GMAW)

Reaction time: 1/10000s acceptable
Shade range: #9–#13
Spatter resistance: Check lens cover plate availability

Stick (SMAW)

Reaction time: 1/10000s acceptable
Shade range: #10–#13
Grinding mode: Useful for slag removal between passes

Flux-Core (FCAW)

Same as MIG requirements
Higher spatter = more frequent cover plate replacement

Power Source Options

Solar-powered

Pros: No battery replacement, lighter weight
Cons: Requires adequate light exposure, slower recovery in dim environments

Battery-powered

Pros: Consistent performance in all lighting
Cons: Battery replacement every 6–12 months (CR2032 or AAA)

Solar + Battery Hybrid

Best reliability for production environments
Battery backup prevents downtime

True Color vs. Standard Lens Technology

Feature	Standard Green Lens	True Color Lens
Color perception	Green/blue tint	Natural color
Weld pool visibility	Adequate	Enhanced
Heat color distinction	Standard	Superior
Cost	Base price	2–3× premium
Best for	Structural steel	Stainless/aluminum TIG

True color improves precision on stainless and aluminum TIG work but isn’t necessary for structural steel fabrication.

Buying Checklist

✓ ANSI Z87.1+ certification marked on helmet
✓ Reaction time matches your primary process
✓ Shade range covers your amperage requirements
✓ Viewing area suits your work environment
✓ Optical clarity rating 1/1/1/2 or better
✓ Replacement lens covers readily available
✓ Adjustable sensitivity and delay controls
✓ Grinding mode if you do stick or flux-core

Common Mistakes

Buying based on viewing area alone
Large viewing area with slow reaction time = retina damage risk. Verify switching speed first.

Ignoring optical clarity rating
1/1/1/3 lenses cause eye strain during 8+ hour shifts. Pay for 1/1/1/2 if you weld full-time.

Skipping sensitivity adjustment testing
Low-amperage TIG (10–40A) won’t trigger poorly calibrated sensors. Test before buying.

December 3, 2025

Welding Fume Exposure in 2025: What’s Changed and What PPE Actually Protects You
Welding fumes have always carried health risks, but 2025 brings a major shift in how OSHA, AWS, and safety professionals are treating long-term exposure. Injury rates in welding have dropped 15% since 2020, but chronic inflammation, respiratory diseases, and cumulative metal-fume toxicity are getting significantly more attention.

What’s driving the change?
Stricter exposure limits, new PPE technologies, and better data on how manganese, hexavalent chromium, nickel, and aluminum fumes impact long-term health.

This guide explains what’s new, what’s trending, and which respirators provide real protection—not just marketing.

Key Takeaways
- Chronic inflammation from long-term fume exposure is a major 2025 focus
- OSHA and ANSI Z49.1 have updated guidance for ventilation and fume extraction
- PAPRs and tight-fitting respirators are becoming standard, not optional
- Shops must document airflow, PPE compliance, and exposure reduction
- Welders need gear that protects against manganese, aluminum oxides, and stainless fumes
What Changed in 2025

1. Chronic Inflammation Identified as a High-Priority Health Risk

Research now links long-term fume exposure to:
- Chronic lung inflammation
- Reduced lung function
- Cardiovascular stress
- Increased sensitivity to airborne metals
OSHA has signaled more aggressive enforcement on fume control, especially in enclosed fabrication environments.

2. Stronger Requirements for Fume Extraction & Ventilation

ANSI Z49.1 (Safety in Welding, Cutting, and Allied Processes) now emphasizes:
- Mandatory local exhaust ventilation in most shop environments
- Airflow documentation for enclosed welding stations
- Regular fume monitoring for stainless, galvanized, and hardfacing work
Shops that relied on “general ventilation” are being pushed toward mechanical extraction.

3. PPE Expectations Increased Across Industries

Old disposable masks don’t cut it anymore. For metal fume exposure, the standard is shifting toward:
- Elastomeric half-mask respirators with P100 filters
- PAPRs for long-duration welding or stainless applications
- Integrated hood systems for high-particulate shops
Shops are required to treat fume protection as “essential PPE,” not optional.

Where Welders Are Most at Risk

The highest fume loads appear in:

• MIG welding in confined areas

High particulate, high manganese content.

• Stainless steel welding (GMAW, GTAW, FCAW)

Hexavalent chromium risk.

• Hardfacing and high-heat processes

High metal concentration and oxide generation.

• Multi-pass structural welding

Sustained exposure on thick materials increases cumulative load.

Recommended PPE for Real Protection (Not Marketing Claims)

Below are two Miller respirators your audience already trusts and you want to sell. These are ideal for 2025’s stricter fume-control expectations.

Miller LPR-100 (295273 / 295274)

A low-profile, P100-rated respirator designed specifically for welding hoods.

Why it stands out:
- - Tight-seal fit designed for welding helmets
  - Filters block 99.97% of airborne particulates
  - Compact design prevents interference with PAPR hoses or helmets
  - Great for MIG, Stick, and TIG operations
  - Lower breathing resistance than many elastomeric masks
Where to Buy

ArcWeld Store:

Miller 295273 LPR-100 Gen. II Half Mask Respirator with Nuisance OV Relief, S/M Size

$59.72

In Stock
View Product
“>

Miller 295273 LPR-100 Gen. II Half Mask Respirator with Nuisance OV Relief, S/M Size

$59.72

In Stock
View Product

Miller LPR-100 Gen. II Half Mask Respirator with P-100 Nuisance Organic Vapor Relief, M/L

$59.72

In Stock
View Product
“>

Miller LPR-100 Gen. II Half Mask Respirator with P-100 Nuisance Organic Vapor Relief, M/L

$59.72

In Stock
View Product

Amazon:
Miller LPR-100 Gen. II Half Mask Respirator, Nuisance OV Relief M/L – Welding Respirator Mask with Filters – P100 Respirator Mask for Filtrating Particulates & Aerosols – Respirator Under Helmet
Enhanced Protection with Nuisance OV Relief Filters: The Miller LPR-100 Gen. II Half Mask Respirator, Nuisance OV Relief M/L includes an added carbon layer feature to reduce nuisance-level organic vapor odors; Our respirator mask with filters helps ensure clean, breathable air for welders working in fume-intensive environments
Up to 99.97% Filtration: Upgrade your welding gear with our respirator mask; Strongly resistant to oil, the filters of our respirators help provide reliable filtration of airborne particles, including solid dust, metal fumes and mists
Compact Low-Profile Design for Welding Helmets: The slim design of our welding respirator under helmet offers a wide field of vision and fits easily under most welding helmets; Our respirator is designed to help provide full compatibility with your protective eyewear and headgear
Ergonomic Half-Mask Respirator for Extended Comfort: Crafted for long welding shifts, our half face respirator features minimal dead air space to reduce heat buildup; It also comes with a large non-return exhaust valve to help minimize user fatigue during high-demand tasks
Durable, Medical-Grade Materials: Made with latex- and silicone-free materials, this half mask face respirator is odor-free, hypoallergenic; It is also built to withstand demanding welding environments while providing user comfort and safety
$59.72
Buy on Amazon
Last update on 2025-12-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Miller LPR-100 Gen. II Half Mask Respirator, Nuisance OV Relief S/M – Welding Respirator Mask with Filters – P100 Respirator Mask for Filtrating Particulates & Aerosols – Respirator Under Helmet
Enhanced Protection with Nuisance OV Relief Filters: The Miller LPR-100 Gen. II Half Mask Respirator, Nuisance OV Relief S/M includes an added carbon layer feature to reduce nuisance-level organic vapor odors; Our respirator mask with filters helps ensure clean, breathable air for welders working in fume-intensive environments
Up to 99.97% Filtration: Upgrade your welding gear with our respirator mask; Strongly resistant to oil, the filters of our respirators help provide reliable filtration of airborne particles, including solid dust, metal fumes and mists
Compact Low-Profile Design for Welding Helmets: The slim design of our welding respirator under helmet offers a wide field of vision and fits easily under most welding helmets; Our respirator is designed to help provide full compatibility with your protective eyewear and headgear
Ergonomic Half-Mask Respirator for Extended Comfort: Crafted for long welding shifts, our half face respirator features minimal dead air space to reduce heat buildup; It also comes with a large non-return exhaust valve to help minimize user fatigue during high-demand tasks
Durable, Medical-Grade Materials: Made with latex- and silicone-free materials, this half mask face respirator is odor-free, hypoallergenic; It is also built to withstand demanding welding environments while providing user comfort and safety
$59.72
Buy on Amazon
Last update on 2025-12-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Ventilation: What Actually Works in 2025

1. Local Exhaust Extraction (LEV)

Most effective. Pulls fumes at the arc before they reach the welder.

2. High-Volume Portable Fume Extractors

Good for small fabrication shops; less ideal for high-production cells.

3. PAPR Systems

Best for stainless or long-duration welding. (Optrel Helix Pure Air, 3M Adflo, Miller PAPR)

4. Clean-Air Booths

High-end solution for training centers and production facilities.

Why Shops Should Care

1. Non-compliance = OSHA fines

OSHA’s 2025 inspection priority includes fume exposure logs and ventilation plans.

2. Better PPE lowers long-term medical claims

Reduced inflammation = fewer chronic issues = lower insurance cost.

3. Certified welders are billing higher rates

Because the PPE requirements are stricter and more expensive.

Safety Notes (AWS/ANSI References)
- Follow ANSI Z49.1 for ventilation and exposure limits
- Use NIOSH-approved P100 filters
- Respirator fit testing required under OSHA 1910.134
- For stainless and galvanized steel, ensure proper local extraction
- Replace filters per manufacturer schedule or earlier if breathing resistance increases
FAQ

Do welders need a respirator in 2025?
For most shop work—yes. Exposure standards are stricter, and many shops mandate P100 or PAPR.

Is a disposable mask enough?
Not for welding. Disposable masks do not meet P100 fume protection standards.

Which is better, a PAPR or a tight-fitting respirator?
PAPR = best for long-duration or stainless welding.
P100 = excellent for general welding and a huge improvement over older PPE.

Does fume extraction replace respirators?
No. They work together. Extraction reduces airborne load; respirators protect your lungs directly.

November 30, 2025

The Black Stallion GX5015 series blends TIG-glove dexterity with mechanics-glove structure — now with a verified ARC 3 rating and an ATPV of 30 cal/cm², making these one of the safest crossover TIG/mechanics gloves in their class.

If you weld stainless, carbon steel, or aluminum and need a glove that handles fit-up, layout, and light fabrication while still meeting arc-flash PPE requirements, the GX5015 checks the boxes.

Below is the full review of the Large (GX5015-L) and X-Large (GX5015-XL) models.

Key Takeaways

ARC Rating: 3 — suitable for tasks requiring arc-flash category 3 PPE.
ATPV 30 cal/cm² — strong thermal protection for incidental electrical arc exposure.
Goatskin palm delivers excellent feel for TIG tacks, fit-up, and fine-control tasks.
FR cotton back increases heat resistance vs. synthetic mechanics gloves.
True-to-size fit available in Large and X-Large.

What These Gloves Solve

Regular mechanics gloves can melt or shrink under heat. Basic TIG gloves feel great but lack structure and impact support.

The GX5015 bridges that gap:

Better structure and durability than TIG gloves.
Better heat performance vs. standard mechanics gloves.
ARC 3 / ATPV-30 protection for shops that require electrical arc compliance.

These are a strong choice for TIG-first welders who also handle tools, grinders, fabrication, and general shop work.

Features & Materials

Palm: Premium goatskin — smooth, tactile, reinforced.
Back: FR cotton with ARC 3 rating and ATPV 30 cal/cm² performance.
Cuff: Slip-on, quick-access style.
Fit: Snug TIG-style feel with stable mechanics-glove support.
Stitching: Kevlar® thread.
Use Cases: TIG welding, stainless/aluminum, layout, bench work, fit-up, tool handling, shop maintenance.

Size Options Reviewed

GX5015-L — Large

ArcWeld Store:

Black Stallion GX5015L, Large ARC-Rated Goatskin & FR Cotton Tig & Mechanics Glove (1 Pair)

$32.41

In Stock

View Product

Model	Key Specs	Best For
GX5015-L (Large)	ARC 3, ATPV 30, goatskin palm, FR cotton back, Kevlar stitching	TIG, light fab, electrical-arc compliant shops
GX5015-XL (X-Large)	ARC 3, ATPV 30, same construction	Bigger hands, daily TIG work, shop tasks

Category: Personal Protection Equipment

Welding Safety Glasses Guide 2025 | Shade Numbers, ANSI Z87.1 & UV Protection

ANSI Z87.1 Certification Requirements

Impact Protection Levels

Shade Number Selection by Process

Lens Types & Technologies

Fixed Shade Lenses

Auto-Darkening Lenses

Passive IR/UV Protection (Clear Lenses)

UV & IR Protection Standards

Lens Coatings & Features

Anti-Fog Coating

Anti-Scratch Coating

Polarized Lenses

Frame Styles & Fit

Wraparound Design

Over-the-Glass (OTG) Design

Prescription Welding Glasses

When to Wear Safety Glasses vs. Helmet

Safety Glasses (Supplemental Protection)

Welding Helmet (Primary Protection)

Common Mistakes

Buying Checklist

Auto-Darkening Welding Helmet Buying Guide 2025 | Lens Speed, Shade Range & Standards

Key Specifications

Reaction Time (Switching Speed)

Shade Range

Viewing Area

Optical Clarity Rating (1/1/1/1 to 1/1/1/3)

Certification Requirements

Process-Specific Requirements

TIG (GTAW)

MIG (GMAW)

Stick (SMAW)

Flux-Core (FCAW)

Power Source Options

Solar-powered

Battery-powered

Solar + Battery Hybrid

True Color vs. Standard Lens Technology

Buying Checklist

Common Mistakes

Welding Fume Exposure in 2025: What’s Changed and What PPE Actually Protects You

Key Takeaways

What Changed in 2025

1. Chronic Inflammation Identified as a High-Priority Health Risk

2. Stronger Requirements for Fume Extraction & Ventilation

3. PPE Expectations Increased Across Industries

Where Welders Are Most at Risk

• MIG welding in confined areas

• Stainless steel welding (GMAW, GTAW, FCAW)

• Hardfacing and high-heat processes

• Multi-pass structural welding

Recommended PPE for Real Protection (Not Marketing Claims)

Miller LPR-100 (295273 / 295274)

Why it stands out:

Where to Buy

Miller 295273 LPR-100 Gen. II Half Mask Respirator with Nuisance OV Relief, S/M Size

Miller 295273 LPR-100 Gen. II Half Mask Respirator with Nuisance OV Relief, S/M Size

Miller LPR-100 Gen. II Half Mask Respirator with P-100 Nuisance Organic Vapor Relief, M/L

Miller LPR-100 Gen. II Half Mask Respirator with P-100 Nuisance Organic Vapor Relief, M/L

Ventilation: What Actually Works in 2025

1. Local Exhaust Extraction (LEV)

2. High-Volume Portable Fume Extractors

3. PAPR Systems

4. Clean-Air Booths

Why Shops Should Care

1. Non-compliance = OSHA fines

2. Better PPE lowers long-term medical claims

3. Certified welders are billing higher rates

Safety Notes (AWS/ANSI References)

FAQ

Black Stallion GX5015 TIG/Mechanics Gloves Review & Buying Guide (L & XL)

Key Takeaways

What These Gloves Solve

Features & Materials

Size Options Reviewed

GX5015-L — Large

Black Stallion GX5015L, Large ARC-Rated Goatskin & FR Cotton Tig & Mechanics Glove (1 Pair)

Black Stallion GX5015L, Large ARC-Rated Goatskin & FR Cotton Tig & Mechanics Glove (1 Pair)