Eye protection is a crucial element of personal protective equipment and ensures strong protection. Not wearing proper eye protection during a job can put a worker at risk for an eye injury caused by small particles such as wood chips, metal slivers, nails, or staples, which are common in manufacturing facilities.

In light of National Safety Month, which is observed every June, organizations across the country take time to refocus on the leading causes of injury in the workplace and how to make these environments safer for everyone. As one of their contributions to Safety Month, Pyramex, a leading manufacturer of PPE, answered some questions to provide their expertise on all there is to know about safety glasses.

Q: Do you have any tips for how to select the proper safety glasses and face protection?

A: A good place to gather this and other types of information is at the International Safety Equipment Association Website (www.safetyequipment.org).

It is important for the user to understand the types of hazards that they may be facing with their particular job. They need to carefully match the protector with the application to ensure that they are well protected. Safety glasses and face protection are generally available in a variety of styles and sizes — the user will need to try on different styles to ensure comfort and fit.

Q: How can someone determine if the glasses fit properly?

A: Again, comfort is a big deal! If a pair of glasses is comfortable, you more than likely have a good, secure fit. It is helpful to take your hand and circle the lens and the temples to ensure that there are not excessive gaps. In addition, look down and shake your head to ensure that the glasses do not fall off; you want products that will stay on with sudden movement. 

Q: How can someone recognize safety glasses?

A: Safety glasses are marked with the following:

• Manufacturer’s marks or logos
• Designation of standard (Z87 or Z87-2, for prescription devices)
• Individual claims of compliance
• Impact-rated marking (+)
• Lens type
• Use applications

These marks are either on the inside of the temples or on the lens, depending on the marking.

Q: What are the pros and cons of different lenses?

A: All of our lenses are made from polycarbonate, but we offer different lens colors. The lens color that you choose will depend on your application. The most popular lens is clear, as this can be used in both indoor and outdoor environments. Most users will want a gray lens when working outside, because it is more comfortable in sunlight. There are other options, such as indoor/outdoor lenses, that can be used both inside and outside. Once again, this has a lot to do with user preference and the application.

Q: Will safety glasses protect against chemical splashes?

A: Yes, they will — however, it is recommended that employees use safety goggles or sealed eyewear in areas where there is the potential for chemical splash.

Q: Is it best to implement training before eye and face protection is used?

A: Yes, employers and educational authorities should train their employees in the proper use, application, inspection, maintenance, storage, fitting, and limitations of eye and face protection.

Q: How are safety glasses and other protection equipment properly stored?

A: They should be stored in a dry and clean area.

Pyramex has been providing personal protective products to millions of users for several years. The PPE safety products that AFI offers cover every major category of protection, including 10 different types of high quality safety glasses from Pyramex to ensure all workers are protected from eye hazards and comfortable while on the job.

To learn more about how to limit injuries and properly assess workplace safety, download our Workplace Safety eBook.