ANSI Standards for Optical

The American National Standards Institute develops an assessment system for standards placed on equipment and products for U.S. and international businesses. The ANSI works with several agencies such as OSHA and OEOSC to provide quality standards in optometry.

Function

• ANSI provides standards to the Optics and Electro-Optics Standards Council, which is responsible for administering and managing those standards to manufactures. Both groups combine to propose drafts for a US opinion on optical international standards. Through the OEOSC, ANSI optical standards are available to the public.

Types

• Standards are provided for both prescription and non-prescription eyewear. Safety glasses and sunglasses also have addressed standards to provide maximum protection to eyes. The Occupational Health and Safety Administration adopts ANSI standards for safety glasses, goggles and face shields.

Significance

• ANSI Z80 is the committee that guarantees safety and quality of eyewear. The ANSI 780 committee members are highly experienced professionals in the optometry field, along with affiliates from the Food and Drug Administration. This committee divides standards into two primary areas: equipment for eyewear professionals and products for consumer purchase. Equipment and products include tonometers, contact lenses, frames and foci meters.