Protective glasses: choose the right model to protect your eyes

Protective glasses are essential personal protective equipment (PPE) to safeguard your eyesight in various work environments.

Regulations and requirements

The reference standard for work glasses is EN 166/CE en166f. According to this standard, glasses must:

• Be robust and free of bubbles
• Resist impacts, combustion, corrosion and disinfection
• Have no protrusions or irregularities
• Be non-toxic and odorless
• Be adjustable
• Do not distort the image

In addition, each model must have the CE marking and the resistance to impacts and particles is regulated as follows:

• F: lenses: low-speed particles, frame: low-energy impacts
• B: lenses: medium-speed particles, frame: medium-energy impacts
• FT: lenses: low-speed particles with extreme temperature, frame: low-energy impacts and extreme temperature
• K: resistance to abrasion by fine particles
• N: anti-fog properties of lenses

Any other relevant information is indicated on the lenses.

Types of safety glasses

There are three main types of safety glasses:

1. Goggles

Goggles offer greater protection than ordinary glasses, as they protect both sides of the face. They are ideal for work with dangerous substances or risk of contagion.

They can be worn over prescription glasses, but the elastic band may cause discomfort. For those who need more comfort, there are models with adjustable temples that overlap with prescription glasses.

2. Glasses with arms

The glasses with arms (or with rubber temples) are lightweight and comfortable, but do not protect the sides of the face. They are suitable for DIY jobs or jobs with medium risks.

3. Face shields

The face shields protect the entire face from splashes, splinters, sparks, heat and chemicals. They are ideal for high-risk work environments.

Lens characteristics

The lenses are the fundamental component of safety glasses. The choice of colour is important:

• Transparent: For the most common risks, indoors and with good visibility.
• Yellow: For low light, mist, fog or underground work.
• Grey: Absorbs UV and IR rays, ideal for work with risk of glare.
• Brown: Improves contrast in foggy conditions.
• Blue, red, silver, gold (mirrored): Protection from intense sunlight, ideal for prolonged use.
• Blue, green, silver (revo): Protection from intense and annoying light.
• Grey, brown (polarized): Reduces glare caused by reflective surfaces.
• Weld 3 and 5: Protection from glare during welding.

Protective sunglasses

The protective sunglasses are classified into 5 categories (from 0 to 4) based on their ability to reduce light:

• 0: Transparent or slightly darkened, very limited reduction of light.
• 1: Slightly darkened, limited reduction.
• 2: Medium darkened, good protection.
• 3: Dark lenses, high protection.
• 4: Very dark lenses, very low protection. high.

Important: Categories do not indicate UV protection.

Choosing the right safety glasses

Choosing safety glasses depends on several factors:

• Risk level: If the risk is high, goggles or face shields are needed.
• Type of work: Consider the tasks performed and the potential hazards.
• Comfort: Glasses should be comfortable to wear for long periods.
• Other features: Consider features such as fog resistance or compatibility with prescription glasses.

Remember: Safety glasses are an essential PPE