Arc Eye & Flash Burns

"Arc eye" is a sunburn of the eye's surface caused by ultraviolet light from welding arcs, torches and other intense sources. The pain usually starts hours after exposure, often in the middle of the night, and feels like sand in the eyes.

• Welders
• Helpers
• Bystanders

How it happens

• UV radiation from a welding arc damages the cornea within seconds to minutes of unprotected exposure, even from a distance or a reflection.
• Bystanders, helpers, inspectors and other trades near welding are often hurt because they don't realize an arc is a hazard.
• Exposure to UV sources such as sunlight on snow, tanning lamps and germicidal lights can cause similar injuries.
• Repeated exposure raises the risk of cataracts and other eye damage.

Symptoms

• Pain, burning or gritty feeling, usually 6 to 12 hours later
• Red, watering eyes, sensitivity to light, blurred vision, swollen eyelids
• Skin burns like sunburn on exposed face and arms

Most cases heal in 24 to 48 hours, but seek medical care for severe pain, vision changes or if symptoms last more than two days.

First aid

1. Remove contact lenses if you can do so easily.
2. Rest in a dark room and apply cool, moist compresses to closed eyes.
3. Use lubricating eye drops (artificial tears) if available. Do not rub the eyes.
4. Pain relievers can help. Do not use numbing eye drops except as prescribed; they can slow healing.
5. See a doctor to rule out other injuries and to treat the pain. See Eye Injuries.

Prevention

• Wear a welding helmet with the right shade lens for the process and amperage whenever an arc is struck, plus safety glasses underneath. See Welding Helmets
• Use screens, curtains or barriers to shield others. See Welding Screens
• Warn people before striking an arc, post signs and keep non-welders out of the area or have them wear appropriate eyewear
• Wear flame-resistant clothing that covers skin, and gloves. See Welding Leathers
• Use non-reflective wall coatings in welding booths
• Never look at an arc without eye protection, even briefly. Wear UV-blocking eye protection outdoors in snow or glare

Last updated: October 8, 2026