Understanding Safety Glasses Ratings: ANSI Z87.1 Explained
Decoding Safety Glass Ratings: Demystifying ANSI Z87.1
Have you ever tried to decipher these hieroglyphics on the side of safety glasses and think, "Is this even a secret language?" You are not alone. If you have ever questioned what does ANSI Z87.1 mean and why it should matter to you, then buckle up. In the course of this, we are going to take the mystique off the world of safety glass ratings so that you can protect your eyes like a pro.
Why Should You Care About Safety Glasses Ratings?
Your eyes are irreplaceable! Whether it's on a construction site, in the lab, or mowing the lawn, the last thing you want is some preventable eye injury sidelining you. According to the CDC, every day, about 2,000 U.S. workers sustain job-related eye injuries that require medical treatment. Crazy, right?
But here's the kicker: safety glasses aren't just about slapping on any pair that looks cool or fits okay. It's about wearing the right kind of protection for the various hazards you're working with. And that's where understanding ANSI Z87.1 ratings comes in.
What Is ANSI Z87.1, Anyway?
ANSI is the American National Standards Institute. Rather, they are the unsung heroes setting the benchmark for safety standards, be it in a wide array of industries. Z87.1 is the specific standard for safety eyewear that describes the minimum requirements for safety eyewear intended to provide protection for the eyes against impact, non-ionizing radiation, and chemical hazards.
In other words, ANSI Z87.1 is the rulebook that says, "If you want to call these safety glasses, here's what they need to do."
Decoding the ANSI Z87.1 Markings So, you pick up a pair of safety glasses and see markings like "Z87" or "Z87+". What's the deal?
Z87 vs. Z87+
Z87: Means the eyewear conformed to the basic impact requirements. Z87+: Means it has high-impact protection. This is what you want when there's even a slight chance of flying debris or high-velocity particles.
Pro Tip: Unless you are absolutely sure you won't have high-impact hazards, always go for Z87+. It's better to be safe than sorry.
Lens Markings: U, R, L, V, S
- U: Ultraviolet filter rating (U2, U6, etc.)
- R: Infrared filter rating
- L: Visible light filter-for glare
- V: Variable tint
- S: Special purpose lens tint
These markings will give you an idea of what kind of lens protection you have beyond just impact resistance.
Example: If you see "Z87+ U6, this means the glasses have high-impact protection with maximum UV protection.
High Impact vs. Basic Impact: Which Matters?
Think of you, hammering away, and some nail decides to rebel and fly toward your face. If you had on a pair of basic impact glasses-Z87-they would probably shatter upon contact. High-impact glasses, Z87+, are made to withstand higher forces and thus will keep your eyes safe and the glasses in one piece.
Bottom Line: For most industrial and DIY applications, high-impact protection is absolutely non-negotiable.
How to Choose Proper Safety Glasses for Your Application
Now that you're an expert on ANSI Z87.1, how do you choose the right pair?
Assess the Hazards: Is the potential hazard from flying particles/debris, chemical splash, or radiation? Check the Markings: Look for the proper ANSI Z87.1 marking for your application on the safety glasses or frames; example - Z87+ for high impact. Comfort and Fit: Even the very best safety glasses are useless if they will not remain fitted appropriately and you do not wear them. Additional Features: Anti-fog coatings, prescription lenses, and tints for outdoor work can make a big difference.
Common Misconceptions About Safety Glasses
"All Safety Glasses Are the Same."
Wrong. Not all safety glasses are created equal. Those cheap glasses, without the proper ANSI rating, may be doing little more than providing a false sense of security.
"I Have Prescription Glasses; That's Enough."
Prescription glasses are not designed to provide protection for sight from industrial hazards. You need prescription eyewear glasses that meet standards for ANSI Z87.1
"I Only Need Them for Certain Tasks."
Hazards are often unpredictable. The only way you can be certain that you have protection when the unexpected happens is by wearing your safety glasses constantly.
Real-World Impact of ANSI Z87.1 Compliance
Here's a possible scenario: A metalworker was grinding away when a fragment shot toward his face. His Z87+ safety glasses stopped it cold. Without them, he could well have lost an eye. Standards such as ANSI Z87.1 are life-changing regulations that protect you from further harm.
Knowledge Is Power- Protection Too The meaning of ratings is not about passing a test in safety, but rather, it is about empowering oneself to make the best choices in view of one's well-being. Your eyes deserve nothing but the very best protection available, and now you do know just how to make it happen.
Ready to Up the Ante in Eye Protection? View our line of ANSI Z87.1 rated safety glasses here at Ocusafe. Because when it comes to your vision, second-best isn't an option!
Marc Weinstein
Dr. Weinstein's interest in eyecare was sparked at a young age when he struggled in school due to an undiagnosed eye condition. Once he received a diagnosis and underwent vision therapy prescribed by an optometrist, his life changed. This experience ignited his passion for optometry and improving people's lives through better vision.
With a career dedicated to optometry, Dr. Weinstein has made significant contributions to the field. In October 2000, he launched the website 39dollarglasses.com to address the affordability of prescription eyeglasses. 39DollarGlasses offers lightweight and shatter-resistant polycarbonate lenses as well as hundreds of stylish frames at affordable prices, making quality eyewear accessible to more people.
His understanding of the crucial role that protective eyewear plays in preventing eye injuries and his unwavering commitment to eye safety led Dr. Weinstein to launch Ocusafe.com. Ocusafe™ offers a collection of high-quality safety glasses that meet the highest industry standards for durability and effectiveness. Through Ocusafe™, Dr. Weinstein aims to fulfill the needs of individuals and companies seeking top-quality safety eyewear and prioritize eye safety in various industries and activities.
Dr. Weinstein is dedicated to educating patients about the benefits of different lens enhancements, which can improve vision and provide relief for various conditions. These enhancements have a positive impact on migraines, sleep, and photophobia. His passion for this cause has resulted in the introduction of Neurolux™ headache lenses on 39dollarglasses.com and Ocusleep™ lenses, available at Ocusleep.com. He also launched Onlinecontacts.com to meet the growing demand for safe contact lenses.
Dr. Weinstein earned his doctorate from the Illinois College of Optometry and completed his residency in Low Vision and Geriatrics at the University of Alabama-Birmingham. In addition to his professional pursuits, he enjoys traveling, sports, and spending quality time with his wife and three children.