Complete Welding Lens Shade Chart & Safety Guide for Eye Protection

Protecting your eyes while welding is critical. Choosing the correct welding lens shade not only keeps you safe but also ensures comfort and precision on the job. Whether you’re a professional, apprentice, or instructor, understanding how welding shade numbers correspond to specific processes helps prevent injuries and ensures compliance with industry standards. 

This complete guide from the American Welding Society (AWS) covers everything you need to know about welding eye protection — including how to select the right lens for each task, reduce eye strain, and maintain focus during work. 

Welding Lens Shade Chart 

A welding lens shade chart shows the recommended lens darkness for different welding processes. Using the correct shade protects your eyes from harmful radiant energy while improving visibility and focus. 

For quick reference, AWS provides educational materials and standards that help welders make informed safety choices. 
 
View AWS Standards and Publications to learn recommended lens shades, protect your eyes, and ensure compliance with welding safety guidelines. 
 
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Differences Between Welding Glasses Shades 

Welding glasses and helmets come in various shades and colors, each suited to specific applications. Choosing the right one depends on: 

• The type of welding process (e.g., MIG, TIG, Stick, or plasma cutting) 

• The brightness of the arc 

• Your personal comfort and visibility preference 

Lighter shades (e.g., shade 8–10) are suitable for low-intensity tasks, while darker shades (e.g., shade 12–14) are needed for high-intensity or high-amperage welding to prevent eye strain and long-term damage. 

Become an AWS Member to access exclusive safety standards, technical resources, welding best practices, and member-only discounts on publications, training, and more. 
 
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Understanding Welding Shade Numbers 

Each welding lens has a shade number, typically ranging from 4 to 14. 

• Lower numbers (4–8): Lighter lenses for cutting or low-amperage work. 

• Mid-range (9–12): General-purpose shades for MIG or TIG welding. 

• Higher numbers (13–14): For bright arcs and heavy-duty welding applications. 

Understanding welding helmet shade chart values ensures you’re using the correct level of protection for your amperage and process. 

Learn more in AWS Standards and Publications to ensure proper eye protection and compliance with welding safety guidelines, and join AWS for full access to safety resources, technical guidance, and discounts.

Welding Lens Protection Guidelines 

Proper welding lens protection goes beyond comfort—it’s about safety and compliance. Using the wrong shade can cause eye strain, headaches, or permanent vision damage. Always follow industry-recommended shade guidelines based on amperage and process type. 

Consult AWS Standards and Publications for guidance on lens selection based on welding type and amperage, and join AWS to receive member-only resources and discounts. 
 
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Welding Safety and Health 

Eye protection is just one part of a comprehensive welding safety program. Correct lens shades help protect against: 

• UV radiation 

• Infrared radiation 

• Visible light intensity 

Following safety protocols ensures compliance, prevents eye injuries, and promotes a safer workplace for welders, instructors, and students alike. 

Explore AWS Safety and Health resources to protect your vision and ensure compliance, and enjoy member benefits including technical guides and exclusive discounts.  
 
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Frequently Asked Questions 

1. What is the minimum shade for arc welding? 

2. What is the proper shade lens for welding? 

3. Is shade 10 or 11 better for welding? 

4. Which welding lens is darker, 10 or 14? 

5. What determines the correct shade of lens for use during welding? 

6. How do I determine the correct shade to use when welding? 

7. Why do welders wear blue glasses? 

8. Which lens shade is best?