If you've decided to take up welding by studying it at your local college and buying the necessary equipment, you'll soon be able to complete a multitude of projects around the home. Whether you're keen to work on restoring an old automobile or you're interested in making crafts to sell at your local craft market, welding can help you achieve your goals. When it comes to safety during welding, using the right gear is paramount. However, the correct safety gear for welding extends far beyond wearing a certified welding helmet, protective clothing and leather gloves. Here are three other valuable pieces of safety gear to include any time you plan on welding.

Ear Protection

It's easy to dismiss the use of adequate hearing protection when you're welding because the activity isn't overly loud. While there's a hissing or a sizzling sound that occurs while you weld, it's not loud enough that you should be concerned of ear damage. However, ear protection is absolutely needed because of the risk of a spark traveling into your ear canal and causing serious damage. Even if your welding helmet covers your ears, it's beneficial to wear in-ear protection; if your ears are exposed, you should wear over-ear protection. This is similar to the approach of some welders wearing safety goggles under their helmets -- you can never be too careful where safety from sparks is concerned.

Respirator

A respirator is another key piece of safety gear that can get overlooked when you're welding. Welding produces dangerous gases that can be detrimental to your health; while your helmet protects you from sparks, it doesn't prevent these gases from traveling into your airways. Welding respirators are available in several styles, but all will cover your nose and mouth to keep your airways safe. Look for a model that is thin; if it's too bulky, it will impact the welding helmet's ability to fit comfortably on your face.

Cuff-Less Pants

Anyone with basic welding knowledge knows to wear industrial-strength pants suitable for the job. The mistake that some people can make, however, is buying pants that are a little too long and rolling the cuffs. This practice is dangerous; a spark from your welding project can easily land in the cuff of your pants without your knowledge. It can soon begin to smolder and eventually cause a burn or even a fire. If your welding pants are too long, take them to a tailor to have them hemmed properly.

For more information or to purchase welding equipment, check out a company like Vern Lewis Welding Supply Inc.

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