Apparatus 10 disclosed an improved welders helmet having a replaceable lens 16 thereon incorporating an electrically driven fan 14 which receives filtered air through a plurality of air ducts 24 having a filter 22 thereon. A receptacle 20 for containing a battery is disposed on the helmet along with photovoltaic elements 32 for recharging the batteries from the flash of the weld. Lights 30 are also disposed on the helmet as well as communication means.