Is it safe to weld without a welding helmet for a brief period of time, such as during tack welding?
Even brief exposure to UV rays can result in a burn to the yes known as “Welders Flash” which may not be evident until several hours after exposure. It causes extreme discomfort and can result in swelling, fluid excretion from the eyes and even temporary blindness. Normally, this condition is temporary, but repeated overexposure to UV radiation can result in permanent eye damage.
