How to Choose the Best Safety Goggles?

The first thing you should look for is the markings EN 166. This implies a basic and standard setting that ensures that your pair meets the minimum standards of safety. You should also check the frame markings as well as the lens markings. The former is divided into Strength Designation and Style and Protection. The latter is divided into four categories including radiation protection and light transmission as well as optical quality and finally, lens properties.

When looking at the frame markings of your safety goggles, you should look for 3 markings as well as the name of the maker. The three main standards include the European Standard (EN 166), Style and Protection, and Strength rating. You can tell that your goggles offer UV protection if you see the 3-1.2 marking on the frame.

There are separate frame strength markings that you should be aware of. S for example implies that the frame can withstand an impact from a tiny object traveling at speeds of 12 meters per second. F means that the frame can withstand the impacts of a small object travelling at 45 meters per second. B implies that the frames can withstand impacts from small objects travelling at 120 meters per second. A does the same for speeds of 190 meters per second while the letter T implies that the frames can be used at extreme temperatures.

Another aspect of choosing the right prescription safety goggles is that they should have the proper Style and Protection rating. The number 3 implies that the frames will protect your eyes against liquid splashes. The letter 4 implies that your eyes are protected against dust particles of more than 5 microns. The number 8 says that the frames are resistant to electrical short circuit arcs while the number 9 suggests that the frame is resistant to penetration from a hot solid.

It is also a good idea to understand lens markings. These involve 4 standards as well as the name of the manufacturer. The number 3 implies that the lenses are safe against all kinds of radiation. The number 1.2 protects your eyes against light transmission and the number 2 implies the lenses are of the right optical quality.

Other things to consider when choosing your safety goggles is that they should have a sturdy and full-frame. The fit should be excellent and the price should be within your budget. Also, look for the ANSI Z87 marking which ensures that your goggles are safe to use under most conditions. Look for a pair with rubber-tipped temples as well as a rubber nosepiece. These are more comfortable and will offer excellent usage even when you have to wear your goggles all through the day.

There is nothing as annoying as goggles that fog up. So, when choosing your safety goggles, go with a pair that has anti-fog features. Some of the better-quality protective goggles have two lenses – one inner and one outer – for the creation of an air barrier. This helps to equalize the temperature as well as reduce fogging. However, be sure to keep in mind that even the most modern anti-fogging technology has limitations. The chemical coatings used are quite delicate and so you will need to clean the lenses very carefully.

When choosing your goggles, also go with a pair that has certification for high-velocity impacts and which uses anti-fog technology. They should also offer not less than 99 percent UV protection and should be encased in a lightweight frame. Last but not least, make sure that you pick safety goggles that are attractive and stylish. They should also not obscure your vision and should have scratch-resistant lenses. Picking a pair with side shields is a good idea if you want to protect your eyes from all angles. The fit should be nice and snug and the goggles should be comfortable.