Protective Measures for Eyes and Facial Regions
Protecting Your Eyes: Understanding ANSI Standards for Protective Eyewear
In the realm of safety, protective eyewear plays a crucial role in safeguarding our vision from potential hazards. The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) sets the guidelines for this essential equipment, ensuring it meets the necessary standards for various industries.
When it comes to protective eyewear, there are two key ANSI markings: Z87 and Z87 . The Z87 marking signifies compliance with the basic impact resistance requirements of ANSI Z87.1, while the Z87+ marking indicates the eyewear has passed high-velocity and high-mass impact tests and meets more stringent protection criteria than basic Z87.
The specific characteristics of different types of protective eyewear vary in terms of protection and comfort.
Safety Glasses are suitable for low-impact hazards such as airborne dust, wood chips, and minor debris. They must have side shields to protect against lateral hazards. Safety glasses meet the basic ANSI Z87 or high-impact Z87+ depending on the model. They are usually lightweight with various frame styles, some with adjustable nose pads and temple grips for comfort and fit customization. Examples may feature coatings for scratch resistance and anti-fog properties.
Safety Goggles provide a sealed fit around the eyes, blocking dust, liquid splashes, and chemical vapors. They are used in chemical handling or spray applications. Generally, they meet ANSI Z87.1 impact requirements with additional sealing for splash protection. Designed with enclosed frames and adjustable straps, they may feature ventilation to reduce fogging while maintaining the seal for protection.
Face Shields are designed for high-risk tasks involving flying particles, molten metal, chemical splashes, or intense light radiation. They cover the entire face and are used in conjunction with other eye protection, not as a replacement. Made for full-face coverage, they are often adjustable for fit and tilt. Comfort depends on the harness system and weight.
It's essential to remember that protective eyewear should fit snugly and comfortably under conditions of use. The arm pieces on safety glasses should touch the side of the head and curl behind the ears. Goggle lenses should be centered, and the strap should rest low on the back of the head. Elastic headbands on goggles must be flexible and retain adequate elasticity to hold eyewear in place.
When it comes to prescription glasses, they do not typically meet the minimum ANSI standard for impact resistance. Therefore, protective eyewear, including prescription lenses, safety glasses, or goggles, is necessary when wearing prescription glasses.
Lastly, it's crucial to discard pitted or scratched eyewear and ensure eyewear is clean and defogged. Protective eyewear must meet minimum standards set by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) to provide the necessary protection for various hazards.
[1] ANSI/ISEA Z87.1 - American National Standard for Occupational and Educational Personal Eye and Face Protection Devices [2] OSHA - Occupational Safety and Health Administration [3] National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) [4] American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) [5] National Safety Council (NSC)
- For individuals prioritizing health-and-wellness, choosing ANSI-compliant protective eyewear, such as safety glasses that meet the basic Z87 or high-impact Z87+ standards, can contribute significantly to preserving their eyesight.
- In the realm of science and research, protective eyewear with ANSI certification is essential for safeguarding the vision of laboratory personnel from hazards like chemical splashes, intense light radiation, or flying particles, ensuring optimal health-and-wellness.
