The main relevant standard for personal eye protection is EN166: 2001, which tests for:
- Impact Protection (S, F, or B)
- Optical Quality (1, 2, or 3)
- Liquid Protection (3)
- Dust Protection (4)
- Molten Metal Protection (9)
Impact Protection Ratings:
S: 22m ball at 5.1 m/s (11mph)
F: 6mm ball at 45 m/s (101mph)
B: 6mm ball at 120 m/s (268mph)
The initials or numbers above are used to indicate what type of protection the eyewear provides.
As an example, if a goggle is rated: EN166 1 B 3 4. Then it has passed the test for optical class 1 quality, has stopped a 6mm ball at 268mph, and protects against liquids and large dust particles.
Related Standards
EN170: UV Filters
EN171: IR Filters
EN172: Sun Glare Filters
EN175: Eye Protection During Welding
EN379: Automatic Welding Filters
EN1731: Mesh Eye and Face Protection
Choosing Eye Protection
Additional features should always be considered when choosing safety eyewear. Lenses with an anti-fog coating are extremely useful, as if eyewear fogs-up then the wearer may have to remove it to clear -- putting themselves at risk.
Likewise, an anti-scratch coating can prevent damage have otherwise caused the wearer to have to remove eyewear to improve visibility. Without an anti-scratch coating, eyewear may need to be replaced more often due to lense damage.
As an extra option, many safety spectacles are available with a different coloured lenses. These different tints can aid vision in circumstances such as bright sunshine.
For further advice, please contact us at sheffield.sales@ardenwinch.com or telephone us on 0114 243 3755.