What Is Most Important About Choosing Protective Eye Gear?
Eye injuries can occur in many work environments, from construction and manufacturing to maintenance and chemical handling. Flying particles, dust, chemical splashes and optical radiation are just some of the hazards that can put workers' eyes at risk.
When choosing protective eye gear, the most important consideration is whether the protection is appropriate for the hazard. Selecting the right protection therefore starts with identifying the hazards associated with the task.
Other factors, including fit, comfort, compatibility with other PPE and applicable safety requirements, should also be considered.Start by Identifying the Eye Hazard
Before selecting protective eyewear, employers should identify the hazards workers may encounter while performing their tasks.
Common eye hazards can include:
- Flying objects and particles
- Dust and fine particles
- Chemical splashes
- Sparks and molten materials
- Heat
- Welding and other sources of optical radiation
- Laser radiation
Different hazards may require different forms of protection. For example, eyewear intended primarily for impact protection may not provide the protection required for a chemical splash or welding operation.
This is why the selection process should begin with the workplace hazard rather than the product itself.
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What Are the Different Types of Protective Eye Gear?
Protective eye gear is available in several forms, and each is designed to address particular workplace risks.
Safety glasses are commonly used for protection against impact hazards such as flying objects and particles. Depending on the task, side protection may also be required.
Safety goggles provide more enclosed coverage around the eyes. Depending on their design, they can provide protection against hazards such as impact, dust or liquid splash.
Face shields provide broader coverage of the face. Depending on the hazard, they may need to be worn together with appropriate safety glasses or goggles.
The appropriate choice depends on the type and level of exposure identified in the workplace.
What Does CSA Z94.3 Require?
In Canada, CSA Z94.3, Eye and Face Protectors, is an important standard for occupational eye and face protection.
The standard establishes requirements for different types of eye and face protectors. Employers should also consider the occupational health and safety requirements that apply in their province or territory.
Protective equipment should be checked for the appropriate certification and markings required for its intended use.
However, meeting a standard does not mean that every certified protector is suitable for every task. The equipment still needs to be selected according to the hazards identified in the workplace.Discover 3 key steps to achieving effective eye protection and learn why vision, fit and coverage matter when choosing safety glasses.
Fit, Comfort and Compatibility Matter Too
Once the appropriate type of protection has been identified, fit and comfort become important considerations. Protective eyewear should fit the worker properly, remain in position during the task and provide adequate coverage without unnecessarily interfering with vision.
Comfort can also influence consistent use. Weight, pressure points, adjustability and lens fogging are factors worth considering, particularly when workers wear eye protection for extended periods. Protective eyewear should also be compatible with other PPE, including safety helmets, respirators and hearing protection. One piece of equipment should not interfere with the fit or protective function of another.
How to Choose the Right Protective Eye Gear
A workplace hazard assessment should guide the selection of protective eyewear.
When evaluating protective eyewear:
- Identify the hazard associated with the task.
- Determine the type of protection required for that hazard.
- Verify applicable standards and certification.
- Check the fit, coverage and visibility for the individual worker.
- Make sure the eyewear is compatible with other required PPE.
- Consider comfort and usability, particularly for extended wear.
What Does an Effective Eye Protection Program Look Like?
Choosing appropriate protective eyewear is only one part of protecting workers from eye injuries.
An effective eye protection program should also include:
- Hazard identification and assessment
- Worker training
- Regular inspection of protective eyewear
- Proper cleaning and storage
- Replacement of damaged equipment
- Safe work procedures
Protective eyewear should be inspected regularly. Scratched lenses, damaged frames, broken components or equipment that no longer fits correctly may need to be replaced.
Personal protective equipment cannot eliminate every workplace hazard. However, selecting eye protection that matches the risk, fits the worker properly and is maintained correctly can help reduce the risk of eye injuries.Frequently Asked Questions About Protective Eye Gear
What Is the Difference Between Safety Glasses and Safety Goggles?
Safety glasses are primarily designed to protect the eyes against impact hazards, such as flying objects and particles. Safety goggles provide more enclosed coverage around the eyes and, depending on their design, may be better suited for hazards such as dust, liquid splashes or certain impacts. The appropriate protection should always be selected based on the specific workplace hazard.
When Should Workers Wear Safety Goggles Instead of Safety Glasses?
Safety goggles may be necessary when a hazard could travel around or underneath ordinary safety glasses. This can include certain chemical splashes, fine dust or other airborne particles. The type of safety goggles should be selected according to the nature and level of exposure to the hazard.
Can a Face Shield Replace Safety Glasses or Safety Goggles?
Generally, no. A face shield provides broader protection for the face, but depending on the hazard, it may need to be worn together with appropriate safety glasses or safety goggles. A workplace hazard assessment should be used to determine the appropriate combination of protection for the task.
