Laser welding is a powerful and efficient tool used across a wide range of industries, from automotive and manufacturing to jewellery and medical device production. However, along with its precision and speed comes a serious safety risk—particularly to the eyes.
Unlike traditional welding, laser welding emits concentrated beams of invisible or near-invisible light, often in the infrared spectrum. Exposure to this radiation, even briefly, can result in permanent eye damage. That’s why choosing the right laser safety glasses is essential—not optional—for anyone working with laser welding equipment.
Why Standard Welding Glasses Aren’t Enough
Standard welding goggles or dark-tinted eyewear may block visible light and reduce glare, but they are not designed to protect against specific laser wavelengths. Each laser system operates at a distinct wavelength (for example, 1064 nm for Nd:YAG or 1070 nm for fibre lasers), and without properly rated optical density (OD) filters, your eyes remain at risk—even if you feel no immediate discomfort.
Laser safety glasses designed for welding applications are engineered to block laser radiation at the specific wavelengths used in your equipment. The OD rating indicates how effectively the glasses attenuate laser energy, with higher ratings offering greater protection. The right OD depends on the laser’s power, wavelength, and working distance.
What to Look for in Laser Welding Glasses
When selecting laser safety glasses for welding, consider the following:
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Wavelength Coverage: Ensure the glasses are rated for the exact wavelength(s) used in your laser welding system.
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OD Rating: Select a sufficient OD rating to block harmful radiation based on your laser’s power output.
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Certifications: Look for CE EN 207 or ANSI Z136.1-certified eyewear. These standards confirm the glasses meet internationally recognised safety benchmarks.
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Fit and Comfort: Glasses should be comfortable for extended wear and compatible with prescription eyewear if needed.
Explore Certified Glasses for Laser Welders
We offer a curated range of certified laser welding safety glasses tailored to suit industrial and handheld laser welding systems. Our selection covers the most common laser types used in Australia, including Nd:YAG, fibre lasers, and diode lasers, with eyewear options that combine high OD protection and optimal visibility.
Whether you’re operating a handheld laser welder in a workshop or managing a robotic welding system in a production facility, the right laser eyewear is critical for compliance, safety, and long-term vision protection.
Summary
Laser welding presents unique safety challenges that standard eyewear cannot address. To properly protect your eyesight, choose laser safety glasses specifically designed and certified for your welding system’s wavelength. It’s a small investment that safeguards one of your most vital tools—your vision.