AWS F2.3M:2011

This standard for welding curtains and screens shall apply to all wielding and cutting operations or processes where harmful radiation (see Section 4) is emitted, and excludes those sources that emit X-rays, gamma-rays, particulate radiation (such as alpha and beta radiation), laser light or electron beams. This standard makes use of the International System of Units (SI).

Purpose. The purpose of this standard is to provide reasonable and adequate means, ways, and methods for the testing, selection, and safe use of transparent welding curtains and screens. In order to carry this out, the function of these transparent welding curtains and screens needs to be understood clearly. These devices are designed to provide outside viewers, at some distance from the welding arc or operation, a safe view of the operation and operator. Transparent welding curtains and screens are not meant to replace a welding filter plate or to provide a close-up view of the welding operation. It is recommended that the transparent welding curtain or screen be at least 1 meter from the arc or operation. In establishing safety requirements, the hazards for a viewer at least 1 meter away were considered, with an 8 hour viewing time. In addition, a worst-case welding arc for ultraviolet and blue light emission was used (GMAW on aluminum with an argon shield gas). This represents a conservative approach for eye safety.

Because of this philosophy, curtain or screen grades were not referenced to the welding or cutting operation. The user is free to choose a device of whatever level of visible light transmission for the particular situation. Consequently, all devices must provide a minimally adequate level of ultraviolet and blue light attenuation. For example, if a low level of glare attenuation is desired, a light shade curtain can be selected, and the user would be assured of adequate levels of attenuation of ultraviolet and blue light radiation.