Protective clothing for welders - how to work safely in accordance with EN ISO 11611

Protective welding clothing - What dangers can occur? 

Welding is anything but easy work. Depending on the welding process used, workers are exposed to a wide variety of hazards, some of which are not insignificant. These range from UV radiation or heat, open flames and glowing spatter to hazards caused by the development of fumes and gases, which can even be carcinogenic. For this reason, welding work requires very special protective measures that cover a large number of sources of danger. And despite all this, it must always be ensured that welders can still carry out their work unhindered.

STOP - How welding protection works

 Protective clothing for welding work is regulated by law and must be provided by the employer. Of course, it always depends on the situational circumstances and the welding processes that are ultimately used - but the exact protective measures that an employer must take can be easily determined using the so-called STOP principle.

• S - Substitution: Where possible, welding processes that are particularly harmful to health should be replaced by less harmful processes and materials. 

• T - Technical and structural measures: Of course, the workplace must also create ideal environmental conditions, for example by extracting pollutants or supplying fresh air. 

• O - Organisational measures: This is primarily about resource planning so that as few employees as possible spend as little time as possible doing the hazardous work. 

• P - Personal protection: And here the circle closes! You can only carry out welding work with suitable welding clothing.

What protective clothing for welders needs to do 

The requirements for the right protective clothing for welders are just as high as the dangers involved. To protect you from molten or glowing spatter, your clothing must be able to withstand a lot. 

• The upper and lower body, neck, arms and legs must be covered at all times to prevent hot particles from flying around. This means that any pockets in the welding workwear must also be covered so that no splashes can get into them. Care must also be taken during manufacture to ensure that there are no electrically conductive connections between the inside and outside of the protective clothing for welders.

• At temperatures of more than 1,000°C, the welder's workwear must not only protect you, but must also be designed to withstand the stresses and strains - because the clothing should not only provide one-off protection, but also last for a long time, even in tough applications.

• To ensure that protective clothing for welders can fulfil all its tasks, it all starts with the right fabric. BP® uses an inherent flame-retardant solution which, unlike impregnated cotton, offers permanent protection - even after many washes. In addition, inner cuffs ensure that the skin is protected from UV exposure even during delicate work. 

• Despite the protective functions, comfort naturally also plays an important role in workwear for welders. An ergonomic cut and arm lift system ensure sufficient freedom of movement in every situation and a secure fit, even when stretching. The right fabric mix is not only soft and comfortable against the skin, but is also breathable and dries quickly. And the look should not be neglected either: That's why BP® PPE for welders has a slim silhouette, which is otherwise more familiar from sportswear or leisurewear.

What do I need to bear in mind when using protective welding equipment?

• All areas of the skin that are not covered by the protective clothing must be protected by additional welding protective equipment such as a protective bonnet, gloves, hose scarf, etc. 
• Depending on the work task and welding position, it may also be necessary to wear additional leather aprons and leather gaiters. 
• Protective welding clothing must not be contaminated by oil, grease, oxygen, etc. When cleaning, care must be taken to ensure that the manufacturer's instructions are followed. This is the only way to guarantee the effectiveness of the equipment. Annex A of EN ISO 11611:2015 ‘Guidance for the selection of the type of protective welding clothing, class 1 and 2’ must be used or referred to when selecting protective welding equipment for different welding activities.

What safety details must protective welding clothing fulfil?

• All pockets must be covered with flaps so that no metal splashes can fall into the pockets. 

• Pocket flaps must be 2 cm wider than the opening width so that they cannot be pushed into pockets. 

• Fasteners must not form folds where metal splashes can remain. 

• The width adjustment on the sleeve cuffs must be on the underside of the sleeve.

• The angle of the trouser pockets must not exceed 10°. 

• The jacket collar must be able to be fastened up to the top. No continuous metal parts (e.g. press studs) are permitted so that no thermal bridges are created.

Who pays for protective welding clothing? 

In many countries, employers are legally obliged to provide their employees with appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) if hazards such as heat, flying sparks or electrical voltages occur during work. This also includes welding protective clothing in accordance with EN ISO 11611, which fulfils the specific safety requirements. 

Violations of these regulations can not only lead to fines and legal consequences, but also to liability claims in the event of accidents at work. Employees are also obliged to wear the welding protective clothing provided properly. Regular training on the correct use and care of protective equipment can help to prevent accidents and ensure compliance with legal requirements.

Summary - How welding protection works 

Welding protective clothing in accordance with EN ISO 11611 is essential for the safety of skilled workers in the metalworking industry. This standard specifies the requirements for protective clothing that protects against thermal hazards that can occur during welding and related processes. 

The protective equipment typically includes ergonomically designed trousers and jackets made of flame-retardant materials that ensure freedom of movement and comfort. These materials prevent the development and spread of flames and provide protection against molten metal splashes.

Compliance with EN ISO 11611 ensures that the workwear provides the necessary protection to minimise injuries and health risks, while ensuring comfort at work.