Types of Safety Goggles

Proper eye protection is required in many applications and suggested in many more. With more than 2,000 eye injuries a day in the United States, the need for proper eye protection is critical. The type of eye protection required depends on the situation as well as the individual. Some workplaces set strict guidelines that must be followed. In other instances, it will be up to the individual to determine what is used.

Standard Goggles

• Standard eye protection, be it regular glasses or goggles, is designed to prevent small- to medium-sized objects from entering the eye. The goggles will cover the entire eye, fit snugly against the face and should provide protection from the side as well.

Prescription

• Individuals can have prescription safety glasses made, which allows for a great deal of convenience. These glasses will provide the same level of protection as standard goggles, but they will have specialized lenses to accommodate the individual's needs.

UV Radiation

• If working in a welding area, the safety goggles will need to either be properly shaded to prevent thermal burns, or be used in combination with a welding helmet.

Infectious Material

• In certain applications, the goggles must not only protect from debris but from infectious materials. In the health care industry, the goggles must fit firmly against the user's face to prevent ocular exposure to diseases.

Chemicals

• Another leading cause of eye injury results from chemicals entering the eye. In these areas, full protection goggles should be worn, which fit snugly against the user's face and allow no openings around the perimeter of the goggles.