AWS Welding Inspection and Testing Certification Practice Test

What type of light is dangerous to a welder due to exposure?

1. Infrared light

2. Visible light

3. Ultraviolet light

4. Laser light

The correct answer is: Ultraviolet light

Ultraviolet (UV) light is particularly dangerous to welders due to its ability to cause severe skin burns and damage to the eyes. When welding, the intense heat generated can produce significant UV radiation, which is emitted whenever an electric arc is formed. This radiation is invisible to the naked eye and can lead to conditions such as photokeratitis (often described as a painful sunburn of the eye) and long-term eye damage, including cataracts. Furthermore, UV exposure can lead to skin conditions, as welders are often in close proximity to the welding arc without adequate protection. While other forms of light, such as infrared and visible light, have their hazards, they do not pose the same immediate threat to skin and eye health as ultraviolet light. Therefore, it is crucial for welders to utilize proper personal protective equipment (PPE), including helmets with UV-filtering lenses and protective clothing, to mitigate these risks.