For safety glasses, only frames that meet stringent safety standards for impact resistance and are appropriately marked are allowed. Specifically, the frames must comply with relevant safety standards, such as ANSI Z87.1 for impact resistance, and carry the Z87-2+ marking.
Understanding Safety Glasses Frame Requirements
The type of frames permitted for safety glasses is defined not by their material (e.g., plastic, metal) or style, but by their ability to withstand impact and their adherence to recognized safety standards. This ensures they provide adequate protection for the wearer's eyes.
Key Frame Criteria
To be considered suitable for safety glasses, frames must adhere to the following criteria based on industry standards:
- Compliance with ANSI Z87.1: The frames must meet the requirements of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Z87.1 standard. This standard specifies criteria for occupational and educational eye and face protection devices, particularly regarding impact resistance.
- High-Impact Testing: The frames must have successfully passed rigorous high-impact testing. This testing ensures the frames can withstand significant force without breaking or dislodging the lenses, thereby protecting the eyes from hazards like flying debris or blunt force.
- Specific Marking (Z87-2+): Crucially, the frames must be marked with "Z87-2+". This specific marking indicates that the frame itself (along with the lenses, if they are prescription) has passed high-impact testing and is suitable for use in environments where eye protection is required.
Understanding the Z87-2+ Marking
The Z87-2+ marking is a critical indicator on safety glasses frames, signifying their compliance with high-impact standards and suitability for prescription use.
| Marking | Significance | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Z87-2+ | High-Impact Rated Frames for Prescription Lenses | Indicates the frame has passed high-impact testing and is designed to accommodate prescription lenses while maintaining safety standards. |
This marking differentiates standard eyewear frames from those designed to offer robust protection against workplace or activity-related hazards. Frames marked Z87-2+ are specifically designed to safely hold prescription lenses that also meet impact resistance standards, ensuring that users who require corrective vision are equally protected.
When selecting safety glasses, always verify the presence of the Z87-2+ marking on the frames to ensure they meet the necessary safety requirements for impact protection.
