UV radiation exposure in welders: impact on the skin and eyes

Arc welding is an occupation with exposure to intense bursts of UV radiation (UVR). Although industrial settings may be aware of UV light exposure during welding, physicians may be unaware of this source. We report 3 welders with skin diseases that may have been caused or exacerbated by occupational UV light exposure: refractory subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus, diffuse actinic damage spared by the area protected by safety goggles, and squamous cell carcinoma developed outside of the area protected by a face shield. We review UVR exposure in arc welders, cutaneous adverse effects, and safety recommendations.