Welding is serious business; typically to weld once must use a torch. The torch that is used can easily burn the retinas of the eyes. A welding mask protects the eyes and the rest of the head from the sparks that fly around while welding.
History
The first welding helmet was devised to protect the eyes and head from the ultraviolet rays that are produced by the arc welder. It was very heavy and had two dark peep holes that the wearer could look out of.
The original mask was lined with asbestos to prevent burns, however unfortunately for the users of this type of mask it was determined a few years down the line that asbestos was very hazardous to breathe in. Many of the users of these early masks wound up very ill with lung cancer that was directly over time linked to using the original type of mask. There was usually a leather hood that was worn underneath the mask and draped over the shoulders and covered the neck to add additional protection. It is hard to find a mask that is new that still has the leather hood available.
Over time the mask has evolved into a much lighter structure. The lens now is usually one solid piece and is clear but treated to protect the eyes, it darkens like some sunglasses do when it detects the change in the light produced by the welding and will darken to adjust. Many welders still complain that the welding mask is bulky and can block their view, but working without a welding mask especially when arc welding is very dangerous and can cause serious injury to the eye.
Welder's eye is very painful; the eye becomes extremely swollen, red and hurts. Sometimes even with the benefit of the welding mask welder's eye occurs. Immediate medical attention is needed to tend to this condition.
Costs
A welder mask can be quite expensive, but it is a very necessary piece of equipment. Welding cannot be accomplished without the safety of a welder mask.
An inexpensive welding mask can be purchased for less than $20 this is probably not the best choice because it may not provide the protection needed.
The better models sell for between $200 to $500 dollars; the auto darkening models will cost the most.
A welding mask is a necessary item and money spent to purchase one should not be skimped on.
