A tundish impact pad is provided for use in a tundish vessel. The impact pad has a wavy upper surface which significantly reduces the horizontal surface area in the region of impact where molten iron or steel enters the tundish vessel. This wavy surface substantially reduces the vertical splashing of molten iron or steel entering the vessel, causing a significant reduction in agitation and turbulence within the vessel. The impact pad may exist as a discrete structure or may form an integral part of the structure of the tundish vessel.