Which cutting operation requires the higher eye protection shade rating?

• A. Oxyacetylene cutting
• B. Exothermic cutting
• C. Gas welding
• D. Arc welding

Answer: (B)

Eye protection shade rating is chosen based on how much radiant energy, UV, and IR the operation emits at the work zone. Exothermic cutting uses a chemical reaction with oxygen to produce a very bright flame and a lot of radiant energy right where you’re cutting. That intense light and heat exposure can be harsher on the eyes than the flames or arcs from the other listed processes, so it calls for the higher shade to adequately protect vision. Oxyacetylene cutting and gas welding also produce bright flames, but their radiant output is typically less than the extreme brightness seen with exothermic cutting. Arc welding, while extremely bright, is a different category with established protective lenses, but the context here emphasizes that the exothermic cutting flame demands the higher shade to keep eyes safe during that operation.