Welding is a common construction activity and for those that undertake the job it is important to have the correct safety gear. The sparks thrown off by welding can cause an injury and welding jackets are a part of the safety clothing typically worn to protect against this.
Welding jackets come in a few different styles and are usually designed for the environment in which they will be used. Because of the fire danger associated with the sparks from welding, jackets for welding are typically manufactured from flame resistant materials. Lighter welding jackets are produced for indoor or warm weather use and these can be manufactured in materials such as flame retardant cotton. A heavier style welding jacket for outdoor use in cooler or cold weather is more commonly produced in materials such as leather
While specifically being designed with safety in mind, welding jackets also need to be comfortable to wear and most have features included to help with this. The heat generated by welding can be uncomfortable and vents will typically be designed into jackets for welding to enable better circulation of air. This can help to keep the wearer cooler and upper back and underarm air vents are common features. In many cases the back can be left open for maximum ventilation, with the jacket protecting the arms, shoulders and front of the body. This style is more commonly known as a cape sleeves jacket.
There are a few manufacturers that produce welding jackets, with Steiner Industries being one of these. Their Weldlite and Weldmite jackets are produced in cotton which is treated to be flame resistant. They are a lightweight jacket aimed at indoor use and come in a few different colors including green, navy blue and bucktan. Steiner Industries also produce heavier duty Weld-Rite jackets for welding which are manufactured in leather. These feature their trademark weld-cool design which ensures increased ventilation to keep the wearer cooler while working. Steiner Industries welder’s jackets can be found for sale in a number of retailers, with online stores such as Fastenal and Drill Spot having them available. Costs can vary from $30 to $50 for the lighter cotton jackets to around $140 for the heavy duty leather jackets.
John Tillman Company is another manufacturer that has welding jackets available for sale. This includes styles such as the FR Cotton Welding Jacket. This is affordably priced at around $20 and is a lightweight jacket featuring snap fasteners. The jacket can be found for sale at Fastenal and Tough Weld Workwear in navy blue or green. Other manufacturers to consider for jackets designed for welding include Miller, Black Stallion and BSX.
Wearing protective safety gear is a must for those that use welding equipment. Welding jackets are a part of this and they come in a variety of styles to suit the conditions in which they will be worn. Whether a lighter or heavier style is required, there are options available and either style should keep the wearer safer and more comfortable as they work.