These are the factors to consider when looking for the perfect workplace eye safety products.
Anticipate job site hazards to successfully implement workplace eye safety
When it comes to eye protection in the workplace, the first step is to identify the dangers. Among the main job site hazards to eyes are:
- Flying Objects: If a task requires cutting, chipping or grinding, eyes could be exposed to potentially harmful airborne objects.
- Dust: When working in dusty conditions, wear snug-fitting glasses with guards for extra eye protection.
- Ultraviolet (UV) light: Exposure to bright UV light can inflame the cornea, which causes welder’s flash. Flash burns are like sunburn in the eye and, left untreated, can become infected and cause some vision loss. Workers near welders should wear special screens or shaded lenses to block the flash. If welding, wear specialized welding helmets with rated lenses.
- Chemicals: Workers using chemicals should wear a snug pair of goggles and/or a combination of a face shield and protective eyewear, and consult the chemical’s Safety Data Sheet for the manufacturer’s specific personal protective equipment (PPE) suggestions.
Learn more about Ergodyne’s Skullerz® safety glasses
Labeling and marking
When you wear safety glasses, they should be marked with ANSI Z87.1 Performance Standard compliance, which indicates they’ve been tested for impact and coverage. The glasses might also be marked with Z87+, which denotes high impact testing.
The right fit
Look for safety glasses that allow the addition of accessories, such as elastic bands that keep glasses snug to your head, or guards to keep out dust.
Block the sun
The top safety eyewear lenses on the market are made of polycarbonate materials covered with a scratch-resistant coating that filter out 99.9 percent of harmful UV rays. There are a range of tints available – from lighter tinted indoor/outdoor lenses, to dark smoke or copper, to a variety of glare-resistant mirrored coatings.
Safely store your items
If safety glasses are properly cared for, they should last a long time. After each use, clean safety eyeglasses with a microfiber cloth and store them securely in a sturdy case.
This blog post was drafted in partnership with Ergodyne. Check out Ergodyne’s original article, “The basics of workplace eye protection.”
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