Abstract: An eye protection device for the window of a welding hood or shield includes a first stationary screen portion and a second screen portion which is reciprocable toward and away from a position in the window. A drive for the movable screen portion is connected to a control device which has a manually operable switch to initiate movement of the screen toward the window before the commencement of a welding operation. Additionally, an electro-optical sensor is connected to the control device to provide emergency actuation of the drive if the manual switching element is not used. Preferably, the control also includes a timing element connected to the electrooptical sensor which moves the second screen portion away from the window if the welding light is not detected after a certain period of time.