Safety Eyewear Prescription – What’s Important?

Safety eyewear with prescription lenses is crucial for individuals who require corrective vision while working in environments that pose potential hazards. When selecting safety eyewear with a prescription, several important factors should be considered:

1. Prescription Accuracy: The most critical aspect is ensuring that the prescription in your safety eyewear matches your current vision correction needs. This requires a recent eye examination by an optometrist or ophthalmologist to determine the precise prescription. It is always a good idea to have a prescription that is less than 12 months old when ordering new safety eyewear.

2. Lens Material: Safety eyewear lenses can be made from various materials, such as polycarbonate, pheonix or Trivex. These materials are impact-resistant and provide protection against flying debris or other hazards.

3. Frame Design: Choose a frame that fits comfortably and securely on your face. It should not obstruct your vision, and it should sit snugly to prevent any debris or chemicals from entering your eyes. Please also consider wether you need a seal at the back of the frame.

4. Safety Standards: Make sure the safety eyewear meets relevant safety standards for your specific work environment. For example, ASNZs 1337.6 is a common standard in Australia for protective eyewear. Verify that the eyewear has a label or marking indicating compliance with these standards.

5. Lens Coatings: Consider additional lens coatings, such as anti-scratch, anti-fog, and anti-UV coatings, to enhance the durability and performance of your safety eyewear.

6. Side Shields: If your job involves exposure to side hazards, ensure your safety eyewear has integrated side shields or that you can attach them separately. Side shields provide additional protection from lateral impacts.

7. Ventilation: In environments with temperature variations or humidity, anti-fog coatings or proper ventilation can help maintain clear vision.

8. Comfort: Safety eyewear should be comfortable to wear for extended periods to encourage compliance. Adjustable nose pads and temples can enhance comfort. Light weight is also a bonus.

9. Durability: High-quality frames and lenses are essential to ensure the eyewear lasts and provides reliable protection over time.

10. Prescription Range: Confirm that the eyewear can accommodate your prescription. Some safety frames may have limitations in terms of the strength of prescription lenses they can hold. If your prescription is over +/- 3.00 many of the wrap-around frames will not be suitable and if your prescription is over +/- 6.00 then the range of frames you can choose from diminishes rapidly. This is also true for those with high cylinder corrections.

11. Fit Testing: It’s advisable to have your safety eyewear professionally fit-tested to ensure it provides adequate protection and comfort. An improper fit can compromise safety.

12. Regular Maintenance: Periodic inspection and maintenance of your safety eyewear are essential. Clean the lenses regularly, and replace any damaged or scratched lenses promptly.

13. Training: Ensure you and your colleagues are properly trained in the use and care of safety eyewear. This includes understanding the limitations of the eyewear and when to replace it.

Remember that safety should be the top priority when selecting prescription safety eyewear. Consult with your employer or safety manager to ensure you meet all safety requirements and standards in your workplace. Additionally, it’s essential to follow any company policies or guidelines regarding the use of safety eyewear.

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