The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires employers to provide eye and face protection whenever necessary to protect against chemical, environmental, radiological or mechanical irritants and hazards. Multiple studies show workers encounter eye injuries on the job – with some leading to eye loss – because they were wearing improper or no eye protection.
Employers should conduct a workplace eye hazard assessment, remove or reduce eye hazards where possible and provide appropriate safety eyewear when requiring employees to wear it. Optometrists and ophthalmologists can be consulted with any questions, especially as it relates to those who wear prescription glasses or contacts.
High risk potential for eye injuries include construction, manufacturing, mining, carpentry, auto repair, electrical work, plumbing, welding and maintenance jobsites.
Oakley Safety Glasses
Oakley offers several options of industrial eye protection, including the Industrial M Frame 3.0 PPE, designed with an ultra-lightweight impact and chemical resistant O-Matter frame and optical grade polycarbonate Plutonite lenses.
HDO Optics with Polaric Ellipsoid technology offers high-mass and high-velocity impact protection as well as a high level of optical clarity.
The frame includes a hydrophilic Unobtainium nose pad designed for a secure, no-slip grip, including in wet conditions. THINstem technology provides over-ear protection compatibility.
The clear lenses are designed with an anti-scratch coating on the front of the lens and a permanent anti-fog coating on its back surface and feature 89 percent visible light transmittance for use in low- to no-light conditions. with no influence to contrast or color.
The UV protection of Plutonite lens material filters out all of UVA/UVB up to 400 nanometers wavelength. The model meets EN166 (EU) and ANSI Z87.1 (US) safety eyewear standards.
Uvex Safety Glasses
Uvex safety glasses are designed to provide optimal safety at work through anti-fog coating on the inside or on both sides; indirect or completely closed air vents; scratch-resistant and chemical-resistant coating on the outside or on both sides, and contrast enhancement.
Other features include UV400 protection; resistance to sparks; ergonomics and wearer comfort adapted to the facial shape, and folding elements for additional visual or facial protection. Uvex safety glasses are tested and certified in accordance with the DIN EN standard. The DIN national standard is issued for products that have no ISO (international standards) or EN standards (European standards).
The company manufactures numerous options in its safety glasses category and offers application recommendations for those seeking guidance on the correct choice. The brand’s protective eyewear adheres to test standards involving personal eye protection, optical test methods, non-optical test methods, ultraviolet filters, infrared filters, sun glare filters for industrial use, and laser eye protectors.
Uvex enables those wearing its glasses to customize them with preferred configurations, coatings and tints. The company also accommodates requests for prescription eyewear. Uvex safety spectacles (also called eyeglasses) are standard safety eyewear, particularly suitable for mechanical work. They feature adjustable nose pieces and arms and a folding hinge. Spectacles are designed to circulate air well and ensure the eye area is comfortable. Clear lenses protect eyes from dust and chips while tinted lenses prevent excessive sunlight and glare.
Things to Consider
Choosing the right occupational safety eyewear depends on numerous factors, especially for those needing vision correction. Safety glasses for welding filters both UV and infrared radiation and protects the eyes from any sparks emitted. Its various protection levels depend on task requirements.
Safety goggles are designed with a soft face seal that adapts to the shape of the face, providing all-round protection from flying particles, drops of liquid and splashes. Soft inserts provide a comfortable fit, supported by the adjustable headband. These safety goggles are suitable for extreme working conditions and considered useful when working on the floor or doing overhead welding. Overspecs are occupational safety spectacles worn over prescription eyewear and are designed to be put on or removed easily without compromising the visibility or comfort of normal glasses. They are suitable for mechanical tasks and also can serve as safety eyewear for visitors to the workplace.
Polycarbonate lenses provide the highest level of protection from impact. Materials such as plastic and Trivex also are used in safety wear. Any materials used must meet or exceed the minimum requirements for protecting eyes.
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