European Standard · Eye & Face Protection
EN 175 – Eye and Face Protection Equipment for Welding and Allied Processes
EN 175 is the European standard specifying requirements for equipment used to protect the eyes and face during welding and allied processes, including welding shields, helmets and goggles that hold certified welding filters.
1. Scope
EN 175 covers the shield, helmet or goggle body itself – the structural and protective housing that holds a welding filter meeting EN 169 or an automatic-darkening filter meeting EN 379. It addresses impact resistance, coverage area and compatibility with filter lenses.
2. Exclusions & Related Standards
- Works together with welding filters meeting EN 169 or automatic-darkening filters under EN 379.
- Often integrated with head protection meeting EN 397 in combination welding helmets.
- General eye protection not specific to welding is covered separately by EN 166.
3. Key Requirements & Marking
Shields and helmets must meet requirements for structural strength, impact resistance appropriate to welding and grinding hazards, coverage of the eyes and face, and secure, light-tight fitting of the filter lens to prevent stray radiation reaching the eyes.
4. Testing Overview
Testing includes impact resistance testing of the shield material, assessment of field of vision and coverage area, filter retention and light-tightness of the housing, and durability testing of the headgear and adjustment mechanisms.
5. Selection Guide
Choose a welding shield or helmet that provides adequate facial coverage for the specific welding position and process, fits securely with the required filter shade, and if grinding is also performed, confirm the shield offers adequate impact resistance for that additional hazard.
6. Inspection, Care and Maintenance
- Inspect the shield body for cracks or damage that could compromise structural integrity
- Ensure the filter lens is seated securely and lightproof at the edges before each use
- Clean the shield regularly to maintain good visibility and hygiene
- Replace headgear straps or ratchets that no longer hold the shield securely in position
7. Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between EN 175 and EN 169?
EN 175 covers the protective shield, helmet or goggle housing itself, while EN 169 covers the welding filter lens that is fitted into that housing.
Can EN 175 shields be used for grinding as well as welding?
Many welding shields also provide adequate impact resistance for grinding, but this should be confirmed against the specific product’s certification and manufacturer guidance.
Do welding helmets under EN 175 include head protection?
Only if the specific model is also certified as an industrial safety helmet under EN 397; not all welding shields provide head impact protection.
Can I fit an automatic-darkening filter into any EN 175 shield?
No, the filter must be compatible with and properly seated in the specific shield model to maintain light-tightness and mechanical fit.
How often should a welding shield be replaced?
Replace the shield if the structural body is cracked, if the filter no longer seats securely, or according to the manufacturer’s recommended service life.