What are the minimum clothing requirements to protect skin from UV radiation and sparks?

• A. Long-sleeve flame-resistant clothing; pants; closed shoes or boots; leather apron for extra exposure.
• B. Short-sleeve cotton shirt and jeans.
• C. Flame-retardant coveralls with short sleeves.
• D. Gloves and eye protection only.

Answer: (A)

In welding, protecting skin from both UV radiation and sparks means clothing that covers as much skin as possible and resists ignition. The minimum protective ensemble should include long-sleeve flame-resistant clothing, pants, closed shoes or boots, and a leather apron for extra exposure. The long sleeves and pants keep arms and legs shielded from the arc’s UV light and from flying sparks, while flame-resistant fabric reduces the risk of ignition if a spark or molten metal contacts the fabric. Closed footwear protects the feet from falling sparks and hot metal. A leather apron adds extra protection for the chest and lap areas against sparks, slag, and radiant heat. Other options leave areas exposed—for example, short sleeves leave arms vulnerable to UV and sparks; relying on gloves and eye protection alone doesn’t shield skin; and partial coverage like a flame-retardant garment with short sleeves still leaves significant skin exposed.