Welding aprons and welding jackets are clothing items of personal protective equipment (PPE) made specifically for welders. This equipment is made of fire-resistant and thermally insulating materials that protect welders from metal splatter, high heat, and radiation that cause painful and unpleasant burns. But, which one is best to use? What are the differences between the two? Which one offers better protection for welding? Read on to find out.
Welding Apron vs Welding Jacket
Overall Things to Know about Welding Aprons and Welding Jackets
Generally, welding aprons are better to use for warmer climates since they tend to be more comfortable when it’s warm because the open-cut doesn’t result in heat build-up. In contrast, jackets are preferred for colder climates. They keep you warm and safe, making it more comfortable. But if the fabric used is too stiff or thick, then this naturally reduces comfort.
Welding aprons are the best option if the main requirement for the welding project is mobility. It is easier to put on and take off. Welding aprons come in different models, from those with more coverage to half-aprons that protect only the legs. Since these adjustable, they can be used by multiple employees, saving on inventory cost.
Welding jackets are best when you’re doing some overhead or vertical work. Since it’s close to the body, you can’t get easily tangled in the equipment. In addition, jackets have good sealing and integration with other welding equipment like helmets, helmet bibs, and others. Jackets come in different sized so it is not easily transferable from one employee to another.
Welding Aprons vs Welding Jackets: Main Differences
Perhaps the most significant difference between welding aprons and welding jackets is the coverage they provide. Since a welding apron is similar to a conventional kitchen apron, you get partial coverage at the chest area. There will be no protection for the arm, shoulder, or neck coverage making the apron only suitable for light-duty work.
However, since your back is exposed when using the welding apron, your arms are open to allow uninhibited mobility and precision work. Also, aprons offer protection for the upper legs and knees. If you’re working with knee-height tasks, aprons are more suitable.
Welding jackets or coats, on the other hand, provides coverage for the whole upper body. You get full-on protection from the waist to the neck, this includes coverage for your arms, shoulders, chest, and neck. This, then, is the best option.
Welding Apron vs Welding Jacket: Which is the Better Safety Option?
Remember, safety comes first. This means all other things like comfort and mobility come in secondary. As a general rule, when welding jackets and welding aprons are made of leather, the jacket is always preferred because it provides full coverage and better integration with other protective equipment. But then, for experienced welders who will only do light-duty work, a welding apron will be enough even if it does not provide full coverage.
In conclusion, there is no single piece of equipment that is sufficient for all welding scenarios. You’ll need additional Welding PPE for optimal protection.
