Industrial Safety Glasses : Protection In Harsh Working Environment
Many people take eyesight for granted, but it is one of the most precious things we own. Thousands of people around the world work in jobs that are potentially harmful to their eyesight. Over 2000 work-related eye injuries are reported every single day in the USA, with the majority of these being construction workers. It is estimated that approximately 90 per cent of all eye injuries could have been prevented if they had been wearing safety glasses.
A huge variety of different industries can benefit from the use of industrial safety glasses. It is not only construction workers who are at risk. If you are working in any type of factory or industrial situation where you are subjected to flying debris, falling objects, chemical spillages and such things then it is essential that you protect your eyes with industrial safety glasses. They are incredibly inexpensive and could be the difference between having sight and not.
Most industrial safety glasses are made with a strong polycarbonate lens. Polycarbonate is considerably stronger, more shatter-proof and lighter than traditional glass or plastic lenses. All industrial safety glasses must adhere to strict standards and rigorous testing to pass the ANSI standards.
Basic impact industrial safety glasses are tested by dropping a one-inch diameter steel ball onto the lens from a height of 50 inches. If they do not crack, break or chip then they will be given a basic impact classification.
High impact industrial safety glasses are tested by shooting a ¼" diameter steel ball at the lens at a speed of 150 feet per second. If they do not break, crack, chip, or come away from the frame then they will be given a high impact safety rating. It is always suggested that you buy the maximum protection for your industrial safety glasses even if you believe you do not need such high protection as it will ensure you are protected against all situations. You can recognize high impact safety glasses as they are marked with a ‘+' sign on the lens or frame.
Industrial safety glasses can be bought with either prescription or non-prescription lenses. Prescription safety glasses must be purchased from an eye care practitioner or optical store. However, non-prescription safety glasses can be bought from most hard ware stores or building supply stores.
Industrial safety glasses come in a huge range of colors, styles and sizes. For ultimate protection, a wraparound style lens are recommended as these provide protection from all sides as opposed to just from the front. Modern industrial safety glasses have been designed to look quiet fashionable and resemble sunglasses.
* AO SUNGLASSES are NOT ANSI Z87.1-2003 safety glasses
Industrial safety glasses can also come in a variety of different tints including amber, blue or grey - to minimize the impact of light on the eyes depending on the work environment. Some industrial safety glasses, such as the Outfitter 24 pair from Global Vision can change tints depending on the lighting situation you are in. You can also purchase different lens coatings such as anti-scratch coatings that further protect your eyes and also prevent scratching the lenses. If you work in a humid climate then you can also purchase anti-fog lens coatings.
Industrial safety glasses are incredibly cheap, particularly if you buy in bulk for all your employees. If you are purchasing a pair for yourself you can easily find a good quality, high impact pair for under $5 a pair.
If you are unsure what industrial safety glasses are best for your line of work, it is best to contact your employer who should be able to advise you better. Otherwise, you can contact the OSHA or visit their website for a list of recommendations and information to further help you. However, it is usually recommended that you choose the highest safety rating to ensure you are protected in all circumstances.
Some of the industrial occupations that require high impact industrial safety glasses include: carpenters, plumbers, pipe fitters, machinists, millwrights and laborers.
With industrial safety glasses being so cheap and with so many options it is a simple and priceless investment to make to safeguard your future.
