Eye & face protection

Choosing eye protection

Spectacles protect against flying particles from the front and sides. Goggles seal around the eyes and are the choice for dust, chemical splash and fine particles. A face shield protects the whole face and is worn over spectacles or goggles, not instead of them.

EN 166 and ANSI Z87.1 rate impact resistance; the marking on the frame and lens says which hazards each is rated for.

Lenses and coatings

Clear lenses suit indoor work. Grey or smoke lenses cut glare outdoors. Anti-fog coatings matter in humid plants and where a respirator is worn with the eyewear. Welding needs a filter shade matched to the process and current.