SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/weld-screens-for-bystanders

How should other workers near an arc welding area be shielded from the arc rays?

Noncombustible or flameproof screens.

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  1. Noncombustible or flameproof screens ✔
  2. Plastic sheeting
  3. Nothing if they look away

Why: The arc's light can hurt eyes of people nearby. OSHA requires screens that will not burn, so the shield itself does not become a fire hazard.

Huh, didn't know that: OSHA says welding booths should have a low-reflectivity finish, such as zinc oxide and lamp black, to soak up ultraviolet light.

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References

Answer: Noncombustible or flameproof screens. The arc's light can hurt eyes of people nearby. OSHA requires screens that will not burn, so the shield itself does not become a fire hazard.

  1. OSHA 29 CFR 1910.252 General requirements, welding, cutting and brazing www.osha.gov/laws-regs/regulations/standardnumber/1910/1910.252
    Workers or other persons adjacent to the welding areas shall be protected from the rays by noncombustible or flameproof screens or shields
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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