Arc eye, also known as “welder’s flash” or “flash burn,” is a common injury in welding that happens when the eyes are exposed to intense light and ultraviolet (UV) rays from the welding arc. Even just a few seconds of looking at the welding light without proper eye protection—like a welding helmet or safety goggles—can cause this painful condition. Arc eye is essentially a superficial burn to the surface of the eye (the cornea) and can cause symptoms such as burning, a gritty feeling in the eye, redness, tearing, blurry vision, and sensitivity to light.
If it happens, the best first step is to get to a dark, quiet place and let your eyes rest. Applying a cold compress can help reduce the pain. Avoid rubbing your eyes, and only use eye drops—like artificial tears or anti-inflammatory drops—if recommended by a doctor. If the pain continues or your vision worsens, it’s important to see an eye specialist as soon as possible.
This issue doesn’t just affect welders. Anyone nearby who glances at the welding arc without protection can suffer the same injury. That’s why, during welding—especially mobile welding jobs done in residential areas—others around, especially children, should be warned never to look at the arc. Even household pets can be harmed by the light, so they should be kept away from the area while welding is in progress.
Treatment for arc eye can involve simple home care like rest, cold compresses, and staying in a dark room, but in more serious cases, professional medical treatment may be needed. In these situations, don’t rub your eyes, don’t use over-the-counter drops without medical advice, and avoid bright light or direct sunlight.
The good news is that arc eye is completely preventable. By following proper safety guidelines and always using the right protective gear, you can easily avoid this kind of injury.
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