What do welding goggles protect against?

Welding goggles are specifically designed to protect the eyes from ultraviolet radiation, which is emitted during welding processes. This type of radiation can cause serious eye injuries, such as arc eye, which is a painful inflammation of the cornea due to exposure to intense UV light. The lenses in welding goggles have special tints that filter out harmful rays, ensuring that the welder can see what they are working on while also safeguarding their vision.

In contrasting options, while acid splashes can harm the eyes, protective goggles designed for that purpose would differ from welding goggles. Flying debris is typically addressed with safety glasses or face shields that offer impact protection, rather than the UV protection that welding goggles provide. Electric shocks are a concern in certain work environments, but welding goggles do not offer specific protection against electrical hazards, which often require insulated gloves or other types of personal protective equipment designed for electrical safety.