Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for determining the level of the melt in a ladle or the like, which device comprises a lance (20) with a tubular end adapted to be submerged in the melt. At least one non-contact sensor (1) is mounted in the tubular end of the lance (20) straight opposite to an aperture (24) through the wall of the tubular end. The aperture (24) or the apertures are covered by a sleeve (27) of a heat resistant, electricly non-conducting material. The sensor or the sensors are electrically connected to operational equipment for signals coming from the sensor or the sensors.