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Top Leather Welding Jacket Questions

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a man wearing a leather welding jacket

Leather welding jackets are most popular among welders because they offer a high level of protection. Even though FR cotton welding jackets are just as crucial, it’s always useful to know what kind of apparel is suitable for which kind of work. The following are answers to some of the top leather welding jacket questions you might have had. Now, let’s get started!

Top Leather Welding Jacket Questions

Is a leather welding jacket good for welding?

Leather jackets are ideal for welding. Leather is the most durable material because they’re flame-resistant and offer a high level of protection against heat, sparks, and spatter. This makes them a top choice for welders when it comes to welding PPE. 

What kind of leather is best for welding?

Cowhide is the most popular type of leather used for welding jackets because it is strong and heat-resistant. However, other types of leather such as pigskin, goatskin, and deerskin leather are also used and each has its own advantages. For example, pigskin is known to be quite breathable, while goatskin is quite flexible. The choice depends on the welding job specificities.

How do you care for a leather welding jacket?

Welding jackets are made of heavy leather, and over time, accumulated dirt can make the material stiff. If left uncleaned, the jacket may also develop an unpleasant odor. To make sure it lasts longer and remains flexible, it has to be cleaned on a regular basis.

We have a step-by-step process on how you can do this. Read our blog on How to Clean Leather Welding Jackets.

Before you start, gather the necessary supplies: a moisturizing bath soap or mild detergent, a leather conditioner, and a few cleaning rags.

How durable are leather welding jackets?

Leather is most often used for welding PPE because of its natural durability, heat resistance, and flexibility. Unlike metal-based or synthetic fabrics, leather is a poor conductor of electricity, which is an added safety feature for welders working with electrical equipment. Leather’s thick and rugged texture helps prevent cuts and abrasions from sharp welding tools, rough surfaces, and falling debris.

If you take good care of it, then it will last for many years even in the harshest conditions.

Can you soak a leather jacket in water?

You should not soak a leather welding jacket in water. This can make the leather rigid, lose its shape, or even develop mold. Instead, use a damp cloth for spot cleaning, and allow the jacket to dry on its own.

 

How do you soften a leather welding jacket?

To soften a stiff leather welding jacket:

Clean: Gently spot-clean the jacket to remove any dirt.

Condition: Use a leather conditioner or oil to bring back the suppleness of the leather. 

Use: The only way to break in the jacket is to wear it frequently so that it can fit your body and become less rigid in time.

a man wearing a leather welding jacket
The Waylander DURIN Leather Welding Jacket

What is the best oil for leather jackets?

In order to care for and soften a cowhide leather welding jacket, it is necessary to use the appropriate conditioning products that will preserve the leather’s durability and protective properties. Here’s what you need to know.

Best Oils for Leather Welding PPE by Leather Type

Cowhide (Used in Welding Jackets, Aprons, and Gloves)

Best Oils:

Neatsfoot Oil – Deeply conditions and restores moisture to prevent cracking.

Mink Oil – Adds flexibility and enhances water resistance.

Lanolin-Based Conditioners – Maintain softness while preventing excessive greasiness.

Pigskin (Used in Welding Gloves and Jackets)

Best Oils:

Mink Oil – Softens leather while repelling moisture.

Neatsfoot Oil – Helps restore natural oils lost due to heat exposure.

Specialized Leather Conditioners – Maintain pigskin’s breathability and durability.

Elkskin (Used in welding jackets)

Neatsfoot Oil – Deeply penetrates leather to restore suppleness and prevent drying.

Mink Oil – Softens enhances water resistance, which is beneficial in various welding environments.

Deerskin

Best Oils:

Mink Oil – Keeps deerskin soft and flexible.

Lanolin-Based Conditioners – Prevent drying without over-softening.

Beeswax-Based Conditioners – Adds a protective barrier while maintaining flexibility.

How often should you oil a leather jacket?

For cowhide leather welding jackets, condition every three to six months, or as needed, depending on the degree of use and exposure to extreme conditions.

For pigskin leather welding jackets, condition every three to six months. In case the jacket is likely to come into contact with water frequently, then conditioning may be required more often to maintain the suppleness of the leather.

For Elkskin leather welding jackets, every 3-6 months. Applying conditioners regularly enhances the durability and the protective properties of the leather. In case the jacket is used in extreme conditions, then conditioning may be required more often.

For deerskin leather welding jackets, condition every three to six months. It is important to condition the leather regularly to maintain its softness and elasticity.

Does rain damage leather jackets?

Yes, rain can damage leather jackets by leaving stains on the jacket, making it stiff or even encourage the growth of mold. It is advisable to use protective gear when walking in the rain and only allow a soaked leather jacket to dry on its own.

Can I use rubbing alcohol on leather?

Rubbing alcohol can be used in moderation to remove certain stains, for example, ink, from leather. But it can also dry out the leather, so it’s wise to apply it to a hidden part of the leather first and apply some leather conditioner afterward.

Top Leather Welding Jacket Questions Answered

These are the answers to some of the top leather welding jacket questions that we’ve found. Now that you have a better understanding of this important piece of welding PPE, you can now make a more informed decision on how to buy the best one or how to make them last for a longer period of time. If you need more information on how to choose the best welding PPE or how to take care of welding clothing, make sure to read more of our blogs. 

Top Welding Jacket Questions: What You need to Know

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a man wearing a hybrid welding jacket

Welding jackets are an essential piece of welding PPE for any welder. With it, you get maximum protection against sparks, heat, and molten metal, reducing injuries and burns. Here, we answer a few of the top welding jacket questions just so you get to know more about them, how to properly use them, how to take care of them, and more! Let’s get started. 

Top Welding Jacket Questions

What kind of jacket do you need for welding?

The ideal kind of jacket you need for welding depends on your specific needs and type of welding. But, most welders go for flame-resistant (FR) welding jackets. These are specifically made and designed to protect you from molten metal, sparks, and other welding hazards. These FR jackets are made mostly from materials like wool, cotton, leather, or a blend of natural and synthetic fibers. 

Do I really need a welding jacket?

Yes! Welding jackets are an essential piece of welding PPE and must-haves. They should be worn at all times when welding. They are the barrier between your skin and the heat and sparks generated when welding. Wearing one will reduce the risk of burns and injuries. 

What is the use of a welding jacket?

Protection: Welding jackets protect your upper body from welding hazards like sparks, molten metal, and heat. 

Comfort: In addition to protection, you get insulation and warmth. With so many options for welding jackets out there—leather, cotton, or even a hybrid one—wearing one protects you from extreme weather and makes welding more comfortable. Wear a cotton welding jacket in the summer to keep you cool, and wear a leather welding jacket to keep you warm in winter. 

Durability: All welding jackets are designed to withstand heavy-duty weld work. You just have to choose the best one!

a man wearing a pigskin leather welding clothing

Should I wash my welding jacket?

Washing the welding jacket is not generally recommended. But you can spot-clean them if you want to remove any dirt or debris. Remember not to use any harsh chemicals or too much water because this can damage the FR properties of your jacket. 

What can I use as a welding jacket?

If a welding jacket isn’t available, you can use a welding apron or maybe even a combination of welding pants and an FR welding shirt. But we strongly advise you to get a high-quality welding jacket for welding. 

Top Welding Jacket Questions: How to choose a welding jacket?

In choosing a welding jacket, you need to consider these factors: 

Material: When choosing a material, go for flame-resistant material like cotton, leather, or wool.

Fit: Always make sure your welding jacket fits you comfortably and gives you a full range of motion. 

Length: Choose a longer jacket so you get maximum protection for your torso and arms. 

Features: Look for additional features like adjustable cuffs, multiple pockets, or a hood for convenience and protection.  

Now that we’ve answered the top welding jacket questions, learn more and read our blogs about welding jackets and how to take care of them. Invest in a high-quality welding jacket now because if you invest in high-quality welding PPE, you invest in your safety.

Does Lightweight Welding Gear Compromise Protection?

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a welder wearing lightweight welding clothing

Professional welders spend long hours on the job. So, whatever makes them comfortable and efficient counts. Traditional welding gear can sometimes be bulky and can cause unnecessary fatigue. That’s why lightweight welding gear can be a big advantage offering the relief a welder needs without compromising protection. 

Weld with Ease: The Advantages of Lightweight Welding Gear

Weld with Flexibility:

The most important advantage of lightweight welding gear is you get the flexibility you need. Lighter jackets, helmets, and pants give you a wider range when it comes to motion which is important in reaching tight spaces or even working on overhead welds. This means you get less strain and fatigue, which gives you more accuracy and productivity. 

Comfort from Lightweight Welding Gear

The lighter it is, the more comfort you get. Since lightweight welding gear is less bulky, that means you get better airflow. This is especially important during the summer or when working in confined spaces. It keeps you cool and prevents overheating. Added comfort improves focus and the overall well-being of the welder throughout the workday. 

Lightweight welding gear, FR welding shirt
Waylandwer Welding FR Cotton Welding Shirt, Breathable design

Easy to Transport

Lightweight means easy to transport. For welders who are always on the go, you need your gear wherever you go. Whether you carry it to and from any job site or just work around the workshop, portability means a lot. It means you get to save time and effort, allowing you to focus more on your welding tasks.

Keeping up with Innovation

Ligthwelding welding clothing is an advancement in material science, and as a welder, you need to be updated to take advantage of what technology provides you. These Flame Retardant treated fabrics, however light they are, do not sacrifice safety standards, and they offer durability and heat resistance. When in doubt, do more research as to how to choose the best lightweight welding gear. 

Remember, Lightweight Welding Gear doesn’t Mean Compromise

The usual thinking is light means it isn’t durable. But when you choose quality lightweight welding gear that meets industry standards, then you know for sure that your safety isn’t compromised.

With lightweight welding gear, you get a combination of comfort, mobility, and protection. By taking advantage of these advancements in design and materials, welders could improve their working conditions without compromising safety. So, whenever you need it, embrace the freedom of comfort and flexibility of lightweight welding clothing whenever you can. 

The Ultimate Guide to Caring for Pigskin Leather Welding Clothing

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a man wearing a pigskin leather welding clothing

Safety is always the most important thing when it comes to welding. The proper welding attire not only protects the welder from sparks and burns but also provides the necessary mobility and comfort needed for the job, most especially for the long hours of work it requires. And when it comes to choosing the best kind of leather welding clothing for welding PPE, pigskin leather is a popular choice because of its durability and heat resistance features. Here’s how to take care of pigskin leather welding clothing to make sure you prolong its lifespan and maintain its effectiveness. 

How to Care for Pigskin Leather Welding Clothing

Brush Off Loose Debris

Before cleaning, it’s important to remove any loose debris or dirt from the garment’s surface. This can be done using a soft-bristled brush, which helps to prevent scratching or damaging the leather.

Avoid Harsh Chemicals

Pigskin leather is sensitive to harsh chemicals and solvents, which can strip away its natural oils and cause damage. Instead, use mild soap or a leather cleaner specifically formulated for pigskin leather.

Use Mild Soap or Leather Cleaner

When cleaning the garment, use a mild soap or leather cleaner that is suitable for pigskin leather. Avoid saturating the leather with water, as excessive moisture can lead to damage.

Wipe Down with a Damp Cloth 

After applying the soap or cleaner, wipe down the garment with a damp cloth. Be cautious not to oversaturate the leather, which can cause water stains or damage.

Air-Dry the Pigskin Leather Welding Clothing 

Allow the garment to air dry naturally in a well-ventilated area. Avoid using direct heat or sunlight to dry the leather, as this can cause it to stiffen or crack over time.

a man wearing a pigskin leather welding clothing

Condition Regularly 

After cleaning, it’s essential to condition the pigskin leather to maintain its softness and durability. Apply a suitable leather conditioner and allow it to penetrate the leather for a few minutes before wiping off any excess with a dry cloth.

Store in Cool, Dry Place 

When not in use, store the pigskin leather welding clothing in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. This helps to prevent damage and maintain the integrity of the leather.

Hang the Clothing 

Avoid creasing or folding the garment when storing it, as this can cause permanent damage to the leather. Instead, hang the clothing on a sturdy hanger to maintain its shape and integrity.

Inspect for Damage 

Regularly inspect the garment for any signs of damage or wear, paying particular attention to high-stress areas such as pockets and seams. Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage and ensure the garment’s continued protection.

Check High-Stress Areas 

High-stress areas, such as pockets and seams, are more prone to damage and wear. Regularly check these areas for signs of stress and reinforce or repair them as needed to prolong the garment’s lifespan.

With these techniques, you can maximize the use of your garment and prolong the lifespan of your pigskin leather welding clothing. If there’s one thing you should invest in, it’s the time you put into properly caring for your welding protective clothing.

Knowing When to Replace Your Welding Jacket

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a man wearing a stylish welding clothing

A Welding Jacket is a vital piece of protective equipment for welders, shielding them from sparks, molten metal, and intense heat generated during welding processes. However, like any protective gear, welding jackets have a finite lifespan and must be replaced when they no longer provide adequate protection. Knowing when to change or replace welding jackets is crucial to maintaining the safety and well-being of welders. Here are some welding welding jacket tips to know.

a man wearing a leather welding jacket
A man weather a leather welding jacket

When to Replace Your Welding Jacket

Visible Damage

One of the primary indicators that a welding jacket needs replacement is visible damage. Constant exposure to sparks, spatter, and abrasive surfaces can cause wear and tear on the fabric of the jacket over time. Look for signs such as tears, holes, or fraying seams, as these compromise the integrity of the jacket and reduce its ability to protect against hazards. Even small damages should not be ignored, as they can quickly worsen and expose the wearer to potential injuries.

FR Properties 

Another factor to consider is the condition of the flame-resistant properties of the jacket. Welding jackets are typically made from flame-resistant materials such as leather or flame-retardant fabrics, which are designed to withstand high temperatures without catching fire. However, prolonged exposure to heat, UV radiation, or harsh chemicals can degrade these properties over time, rendering the jacket less effective in protecting against flames and thermal hazards. If there is any doubt about the continued flame-resistant properties of the jacket, it is best to replace it to ensure the safety of the welder.

a man wearing a hybrid welding jacket
Waylander Welding Jacket with Leather Sleevs

Changes in Fit or Comfort

Changes in fit or comfort can also indicate the need for replacement. Welding jackets that have become too tight, too loose, or uncomfortable to wear may hinder the welder’s mobility and compromise their ability to work safely. Additionally, jackets that no longer provide adequate ventilation can cause discomfort and heat stress, posing a risk to the welder’s health and well-being. If a welding jacket is no longer comfortable or does not fit properly, it should be replaced with one that offers a better fit and greater comfort.

Overall Condition of the Welding Jacket

Finally, consider the overall condition of the jacket and its suitability for the specific welding applications and environments. Welding jackets that have been extensively worn or have reached the end of their recommended lifespan may no longer provide sufficient protection for the hazards present in the workplace. Regular inspections and assessments of welding jackets, along with adherence to manufacturer guidelines, are essential for ensuring the safety of welders and preventing accidents and injuries.

Knowing when to change or replace welding jackets is essential for maintaining the safety and well-being of welders. By paying attention to signs of damage, monitoring flame-resistant properties, assessing fit and comfort, and considering the overall condition of the jacket, employers can ensure that welders are adequately protected from the hazards of the welding environment.

The Ultimate Guide to Stylish Welding Clothing

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welder in a leather welding apron

Welding, a skilled trade that involves fusing materials together, demands precision, focus, and safety. While the primary concern during welding is protecting oneself from sparks, heat, and potential injuries, there’s no reason why welders can’t look stylish in the process. The right welding clothing not only ensures safety but also reflects the personality and style of the welder. In this ultimate guide, we’ll explore the essentials of stylish welding clothing, combining both fashion and function.

The Ultimate Guide to Stylish Welding Clothing

Safety First, Style Second:

Before diving into style, it’s crucial to emphasize safety. Welding involves intense heat, sparks, and potentially harmful fumes. Therefore, prioritize clothing made from flame-resistant materials like leather, denim, or heavy cotton. Flame-resistant clothing not only protects against burns but also provides a sturdy foundation for adding style elements.

Leather Jackets:

A classic choice for welders, leather jackets offer both style and protection. Opt for jackets with reinforced stitching and buttoned cuffs to prevent sparks from entering. The rugged and timeless look of a leather jacket not only keeps welders safe but also makes a bold fashion statement.

a man wearing a stylish welding clothing

Denim Delight:

Denim is a versatile fabric that strikes the perfect balance between durability and style. Consider investing in flame-resistant denim pants or coveralls for a comfortable and fashionable welding ensemble. Denim not only withstands the rigors of welding but also exudes a rugged charm that welders can embrace.

Welding Aprons:

Welding aprons are essential for shielding the upper body from sparks and heat. Look for aprons made from heavy-duty materials like leather or denim, with adjustable straps for a personalized fit. Consider adding pockets for convenience, allowing welders to keep essential tools close at hand while maintaining a polished appearance.

Stylish Welding Helmets:

Welding helmets are a safety necessity, but they can also be an opportunity to showcase personal style. Choose a helmet with a sleek design or customize it with unique graphics to add a touch of personality. Many companies now offer helmets in various colors and patterns, allowing welders to express themselves while staying protected.

a man wearing a welding apron

Boots with a Kick:

Sturdy and steel-toed, welding boots are a non-negotiable safety item. However, that doesn’t mean they can’t be stylish. Look for boots with unique designs, or consider customizing them with vibrant laces for a pop of color. A stylish pair of welding boots not only keeps feet safe but also completes the overall fashionable welding attire.

Stylish Welding Clothing – Accessorize with Purpose:

Don’t forget to accessorize with purpose. Welding gloves, safety glasses, and other protective gear can be chosen in colors or patterns that complement the overall ensemble. Adding stylish accessories not only enhances the look but also demonstrates attention to detail in safety practices.

In the world of welding, style and safety need not be mutually exclusive. The ultimate guide to stylish welding clothing emphasizes the importance of prioritizing safety while also showcasing the diverse ways welders can express their personalities through their attire. By combining functionality with fashion, welders can confidently step into their workshops, not only protected from the hazards of their craft but also making a statement with their unique and stylish welding clothing.

A Guide to Effectively Using Welding Clothing in Winter

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Welding in winter requires careful consideration of both safety and comfort. The right use of welding clothing in winter during colder months can make a significant difference in a welder’s ability to work efficiently and protect themselves from the harsh elements. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to make the most of your welding clothing in winter:

a welder wearing winter clothing in winter

How to Effectively Use Welding Clothing in Winter

Layering for Optimal Warmth:

Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat away from the skin.

Add insulating layers for warmth, ensuring flexibility and ease of movement.

The outer layer should be a flame-resistant welding jacket and pants to protect against sparks and splatter.

Choose the Right Materials for welding clothing in winter:

Opt for flame-resistant materials to ensure protection against welding-related hazards.

Look for clothing with insulation to provide an extra barrier against the cold.

Protective Headgear:

Wear a welding helmet with a proper face shield to shield your eyes from welding arc light.

Ensure that the headgear fits snugly to prevent cold air from reaching your face and neck.

Insulated Gloves:

Invest in insulated welding gloves to keep your hands warm while maintaining dexterity.

Ensure that the gloves are flame-resistant and provide adequate protection against sparks and heat.

a welder wearing welding clothing in winter

Warm Footwear:

Wear insulated and steel-toed boots to protect your feet from both the cold and potential hazards on the welding site.

Consider adding thermal socks for additional warmth.

Utilize Heated Clothing:

Embrace the advancements in heated welding clothing technology, including jackets, vests, and gloves with built-in heating elements.

Adjust the heat settings based on the severity of the cold, providing a customizable solution for winter welding.

Stay Dry:

Use water-resistant or waterproof outer layers to prevent moisture from penetrating and compromising the insulation.

Wet clothing can significantly reduce the effectiveness of insulation, making it crucial to stay dry.

Frequent Inspections:

Regularly inspect your welding clothing for any signs of wear, tear, or damage.

Replace or repair garments promptly to maintain their protective properties.

Ventilation Management:

While it’s essential to stay warm, proper ventilation is equally crucial to disperse welding fumes.

Balance staying warm with ensuring a well-ventilated workspace.

Take Breaks and Stay Hydrated:

Working in cold conditions can lead to fatigue and dehydration.

Schedule regular breaks to warm up, and stay hydrated to maintain energy levels.

Know Your Limits:

Understand your body’s response to cold weather and know when it’s time to take a break.

Extreme cold can affect concentration and reaction time, so listen to your body and prioritize safety.

By implementing these strategies, welders can effectively use welding clothing in winter, ensuring both protection and comfort. The right combination of layering, quality materials, and modern technologies can make winter welding a more manageable and productive experience.

Pigskin Leather vs. Cowhide Leather for Welding Clothing

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a man wearing a pigskin leather welding clothing

When it comes to welding, safety is paramount. Proper welding attire is essential to protect yourself from sparks, molten metal, and other hazards. Two popular choices for welding clothing are pigskin leather and cowhide leather. Each has its own unique characteristics, and choosing the right one depends on your specific needs and preferences.

Pigskin Leather: Lightweight and Flexible

pigskin leather

Pigskin leather is often the preferred choice for welding gloves and aprons. One of its standout features is its lightweight and flexible nature. Welders who require precision and dexterity in their work often choose pigskin leather because it allows for more nimble movements.

Despite its relatively thin texture, pigskin leather provides excellent protection against heat and sparks. Its natural fire resistance makes it ideal for welding tasks. Pigskin also has good breathability, which can be a significant advantage during long welding sessions, as it reduces sweat and discomfort.

Furthermore, pigskin leather is less expensive than cowhide leather, making it a practical choice for welders on a budget. However, it may not be as durable as cowhide leather, and it can wear out faster in heavy-duty applications.

Cowhide Leather: Durability and Robust Protection

Cowhide leather, on the other hand, is the go-to choice for heavy-duty welding clothing. It’s thicker and more robust compared to pigskin leather, providing superior protection against sparks and molten metal splashes. This durability makes cowhide leather ideal for welders who are exposed to harsh conditions regularly.

leather welding jacket

Cowhide leather is also known for its impressive abrasion resistance. If you’re working in an environment where your clothing might come into contact with abrasive surfaces, cowhide is the better option.

While cowhide is tougher than pigskin, it is heavier and less flexible. This can limit dexterity, making intricate welding tasks more challenging. Additionally, cowhide tends to be less breathable than pigskin, which can lead to discomfort during prolonged use, especially in hot environments.

Choosing the Right Leather for You

Ultimately, the choice between pigskin and cowhide leather for welding clothing depends on your specific welding needs and personal preferences.

Choose pigskin leather

if you require a lightweight and flexible option, prioritize dexterity, and work in a relatively low-intensity welding environment. Pigskin is also the more budget-friendly option.

Opt for cowhide leather

if you need maximum durability and protection in a heavy-duty welding setting. Cowhide excels in providing robust defense against sparks and abrasions, making it ideal for welders facing extreme conditions.

Remember that your safety should always be the top priority. Regardless of the type of leather you choose, make sure your welding clothing fits properly and provides adequate coverage. Regularly inspect and maintain your welding attire to ensure it continues to protect you effectively. Ultimately, the right choice of leather for welding clothing can make a significant difference in your safety and comfort on the job.

Welding in Summer: How to Avoid the Risks

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a welder working in the summer

Welding in itself is already a challenge. Welding in extreme weather conditions adds to that challenge. And if you’re welding in summer, there are some risks and you need to avoid them and take extra precautions. Here we talk about the risks and how you, as a welder, could avoid them. 

 

Welding in the Summer: The Risks

According to CDC, 285 construction workers died from heat-related causes between 1992 and 2016, more than a third of all U.S. occupational deaths from heat exposure. While many of the risks of welding in hot weather are universal to all jobs, some are specific to welding.

 

Sweat

The first is sweat. Even if it isn’t summer, sweating is normal while on the job. You are dealing with molten steel after all. But during summer, the amount of sweat you produce doubles and that poses a threat. Sweat can drip into your eyes and it can affect your performance. It can also affect your ability to grip objects. The biggest threat, though, is electrocution. If your clothes or welding gloves get saturated with sweat, a single touch can shock you. 

 

pipeline welder working

Heat Stroke/Heat Exhaustion

The most serious heat-related sickness is heat stroke. It happens when the body loses the ability to regulate its temperature, causing the body’s temperature to increase quickly, the sweating system to malfunction, and the body to be unable to cool down. Within 10 to 15 minutes after the onset of heat stroke, the body temperature can reach 106°F or more.

 

Heat exhaustion, on the other hand, is when the body reacts to an excessive loss of water and salt because of excessive sweating. This then produces heat exhaustion. 

 

It’s normal for you to do work with fire and heat. But if you have the heat of the sun competing with that, working becomes more difficult. You lose energy easily and you get disoriented. You start to get blurry vision and you experience shortness of breath. The worst thing that can happen is you pass out while on the job and that is never good. 

 

Distractions

If you feel hot, you get distracted. You lose concentration because of discomfort. Sweat dripping from a welder’s face can easily distract one from the welding job at hand. Getting distracted at any point while working can pose a threat not just to the welder himself/herself, but to other people around as well. 

 

What can welders do to avoid the risks?

There are a few things a welder can do in order to avoid the risks of welding in the summer. 

 

Drink a lot of water. Stay hydrated. 

When dealing with heat, staying hydrated is always key. A welder battles the sun in addition to having white-hot flame inches from his body. Everything is fighting against him and it sucks the water from the body. Don’t rely on any one symptom to determine when to stop and get some water because heat exhaustion can happen even if you aren’t sweating. Recognize your boundaries and lean on the side of caution – drink a lot of water.

 

Use Sweat Absorption Clothing

 

Wearing the appropriate summer welding clothing is very important. You need lightweight, light-colored, and flame-retardant welding clothing that protects you and helps you keep cool while at work. This would reduce the risks of sweating and heat stroke. 

 

welder at work

Use Cooling Bands

Welders frequently use cooling bands to prevent heat fatigue. Use lightweight commercial cooling bands and cooling belts to direct cool air to the head and core to keep the body cool. Many of these devices are designed specifically for the welding profession, which means that they offer priceless heat protection without restricting the welder’s range of motion or ability to do the task safely.

 

These are just some of the things that you can do as a welder to avoid the risks while welding in the summer. So, the next time you start work, remember to always bring a water bottle with you and take a break to stay hydrated. 

3 Reasons Why Leather is Excellent Fabric for Welding Clothing

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welder working

It may seem obvious, but whether welding indoors or outdoors, a welder requires flame-resistant and fire-retardant PPE for protection. The immediate dangers are flames, molten metal, and sparks, which must be avoided. One of the greatest fabrics for protecting a welder from burn injuries is leather.  Leather is a great material that protects against both sparks and flames as well as heat. That is why it makes an excellent fabric for welding clothing. Welding boots and gloves made of 100% leather are required safety equipment for welders.

 

Wearing leather welding clothing over other textiles for welding has three indisputable advantages. Let’s take a closer look.

 

3 Reasons why Leather is an excellent fabric for Welding Clothing

1. Leather prevents heat from burning the skin at high temperatures.

 

Heat, not only sparks, can burn the skin when welding because temperatures reach to dangerously high levels. That’s why it’s critical that the clothes you’re wearing not only resists fire, but also heat. Leather is impervious to heat. 

 

One of the most compelling reasons why most experienced welders prefer to wear leather jackets while welding is because of this.

 

welder working

 

2. Leather is both puncture and abrasion-resistant.

Leather has good fire resistance. If sparks come into direct touch with it, it self-extinguishes. It is indeed proven to withstand the test of time. Leather (mainly top grain leather) may last for years without being damaged due to its resilience and abrasion resistance.

 

However, because pure leather is animal skin, you must use it with caution. Cleaning the leather surface will be the most important component in determining how long it will last.

 

3. Leather shields you from sparks and flame.

Unlike leather clothing that is flame-resistant, flaming sparks can easily penetrate clothing. This can cause burn damage to the welder.

 

Pure leather is extremely durable and fire-resistant. That means a single spark spattered directly on the leather surface will not leave holes. It will also not allow sparks to get into direct contact with your skin and cause burn injuries. That’s why wearing leather boots and welding jackets are highly recommended for protection against sparks and flame.