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OSHA requires helmets or hand shields for arc welding, except for which process?

Submerged arc welding is excluded.

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  1. MIG welding
  2. Stick welding
  3. Submerged arc welding ✔

Why: In submerged arc welding the arc is buried under a blanket of flux, so the arc is not exposed. Stick, MIG and other open-arc work all require a helmet or hand shield.

Huh, didn't know that: OSHA says helmets and hand shields must protect the face, neck and ears from the direct radiant energy of the arc.

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References

Answer: Submerged arc welding. In submerged arc welding the arc is buried under a blanket of flux, so the arc is not exposed. Stick, MIG and other open-arc work all require a helmet or hand shield.

  1. OSHA 29 CFR 1910.252 General requirements, welding, cutting and brazing www.osha.gov/laws-regs/regulations/standardnumber/1910/1910.252
    Helmets or hand shields shall be used during all arc welding or arc cutting operations, excluding submerged arc welding.
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  2. TWI, Submerged arc welding process (Job Knowledge 5) www.twi-global.com/technical-knowledge/job-knowledge/submerged-arc-welding-process-005
    There is no visible arc light, welding is spatter-free
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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