While welders' glasses are designed to protect eyes from intense light, they are not specifically calibrated for safe solar viewing. The shade number required for safe eclipse viewing is 14 or higher, while most welders' glasses only have a shade number of 10 or 12. This means that the level of protection they offer is not sufficient to prevent severe eye damage during an eclipse.

Viewing a solar eclipse without proper eye protection can lead to serious and permanent eye damage, including:

* Solar retinopathy: Damage to the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye.

* Blindness: In severe cases, solar retinopathy can lead to blindness.

Safe ways to view a solar eclipse:

* Eclipse glasses: These are specifically designed for safe solar viewing and have a high enough shade number (14 or higher).

* Solar viewers: Handheld devices that use a special solar filter to project an image of the sun.

* Telescope or binoculars with a solar filter: Always use a certified solar filter that fits over the front of your telescope or binoculars.

It is crucial to never look directly at the sun without proper eye protection, even during a partial eclipse. The sun's rays can be harmful even when the sun is partially obscured.

If you are unsure about the safety of your welding glasses, please consult with a qualified professional.