Welding presents a unique hazard profile, potentially causing two distinct types of injury. The first is a thermal injury, causing burns to the skin from contact with molten metal or hot equipment. The second, and more common, is photokeratitis, widely known as “arc eye” or “flash burn,” which is effectively a sunburn on the surface of the eye caused by intense ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Understanding the nature of the injury is the first step toward accurate treatment, as protocols for skin and corneal damage are entirely different. Quick, appropriate first aid is necessary to minimize pain, prevent infection, and promote recovery.
Immediate Care for Welding Skin Burns
A burn to the skin demands immediate action to halt the progression of tissue damage. Move away from the heat source and quickly remove any clothing or jewelry near the affected area, unless the material is stuck to the skin. Removing these items prevents them from retaining heat and causing further injury.
The damaged area must be cooled immediately by holding it under cool, running tap water for 10 to 20 minutes. This cooling process reduces the temperature of the underlying tissue, which limits the depth and severity of the burn. Use cool water, not ice or ice water, as extreme cold can further damage the skin.
After cooling the skin, gently clean the injury with mild soap and lukewarm water to remove any debris. For minor burns that do not involve broken blisters, an application of aloe vera or a burn-specific cream can help soothe the irritation. The burn should then be covered loosely with a non-adhesive, sterile dressing to protect the tissue from contamination and prevent infection.
Minor (first-degree) burns cause redness and light pain, while moderate (second-degree) burns result in significant pain, swelling, and blistering. Blisters should not be intentionally popped, as they provide a natural barrier against infection. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can be taken to manage the discomfort and reduce inflammation.
First Aid for Welding Flash (Arc Eye)
Arc eye, or photokeratitis, results from the UV light emitted by the welding arc damaging the corneal epithelium. Symptoms often present with a delay of three to twelve hours after exposure. Primary symptoms include intense pain, a strong sensitivity to light (photophobia), and a distinct feeling that sand or a foreign body is lodged in the eye.
The initial approach to managing arc eye is to rest the eyes completely and immediately move to a dark environment. Resting the eyes minimizes strain and reduces the discomfort caused by light sensitivity. If contact lenses are worn, they must be removed right away to prevent further irritation.
Applying a cold compress or an ice pack wrapped in a cloth over the closed eyes can provide temporary relief by reducing inflammation. Non-medicated, over-the-counter artificial tears or lubricating eye drops can be used to reduce friction across the cornea. This helps ease the gritty sensation and keeps the eye moist during the healing process.
Avoid actions that can worsen the injury or delay healing. The eyes should not be rubbed, as this can cause further damage to the compromised corneal surface. Topical anesthetic eye drops should never be used for self-treatment because they slow the natural healing of the cornea and increase the risk of ulcer formation.
When Professional Medical Attention is Required
While many welding-related injuries respond well to first aid, certain signs indicate the need for professional medical evaluation. For skin burns, any burn larger than the size of the injured person’s palm should be evaluated. Immediate medical attention is required if the burn has caused blistering (second-degree) or appears dry, leathery, charred, or numb (third-degree).
Burns located on the face, hands, feet, genitals, or over major joints are considered serious and necessitate a doctor’s examination. These areas carry a greater risk of functional impairment or infection. Increasing redness, swelling, or the presence of pus indicates a possible infection, which requires a medical diagnosis and potentially prescribed antibiotics.
For eye injuries, consult a medical professional if severe pain persists for more than 24 hours or if symptoms worsen despite first aid. Sudden changes in vision, such as blurriness, flashing spots, or reduced visual acuity, require immediate evaluation. If a foreign body, such as a metal fragment, is suspected to be embedded in the eye, immediate emergency care is necessary. Professional treatment often involves prescribed antibiotic ointments or drops to prevent infection and ensure the cornea heals correctly.