Eye/face protection

Responding is Kyle Anderson, product manager, hand tools/personal protective equipment, Milwaukee Tool, Niles, IL.

In the ever-evolving landscape of construction, ensuring worker safety is crucial. Eye and face protection plays a crucial role in safeguarding against hazards present on jobsites. As regulations, technologies and user needs continue to develop, understanding the latest trends and best practices in PPE is essential for contractors looking to enhance safety and compliance.

To stay up to date and informed on the latest trends in eye and face protection, it’s important for professionals to consider several key factors:
Regulatory standards. The ANSI Z87.1 standard outlines the essential requirements for eye and face protection on construction sites in the United States. This standard encompasses a range of protective gear, including safety glasses, goggles and faceshields. Although the core compliance requirements are uniform nationwide, variations may arise based on specific tasks and applications. For instance, when performing overhead drilling or grinding, the use of a faceshield may be required to ensure optimal safety.
Technology. Advancements in technology have significantly enhanced the effectiveness of PPE for eye and face protection. Improved lens coatings that resist scratches and fogging have led to greater durability and increased user satisfaction. Current design trends show a rise in gasketed glasses, which offer better debris protection, and stylish, lifestyle-oriented designs are becoming more popular. Additionally, innovative features such as fog-free and anti-scratch coatings are gaining traction in the market.
Comfort and fit. For contractors, ensuring comfort and fit in PPE is critical. Key factors include providing full coverage around the eyes to prevent foreign objects from entering. Design elements such as adjustable nose bridges and temples help accommodate a variety of face shapes and sizes, promoting a secure and comfortable fit.
User feedback. Feedback from contractors and workers plays a crucial role in shaping the future of eye and face protection. Common issues reported include scratching and fogging of lenses, along with concerns regarding overall comfort and durability. If employees find PPE uncomfortable or ill-fitting, organizations must seek alternative options to ensure compliance with safety standards.
Specific needs. Environmental factors significantly affect PPE selection. In sunny, hot climates, tinted or mirrored glasses are often preferred, while gasketed options are favored in dusty indoor and outdoor settings. For environments with chemical exposure hazards, goggles that meet D3, D4 or even D5 certifications become essential.
Purchasing considerations. When evaluating eye and face protection, contractors should consider three key factors: fit, comfort and protection levels. Additional features such as anti-fog and anti-scratch coatings should also be considered to ensure optimal performance.
Education. To keep their teams informed about the latest trends and best practices, contractors must prioritize education within their safety programs. This includes ensuring safety managers stay up to date on industry standards by engaging with editorials, following new product launches from manufacturers, and attending relevant conferences and trade shows.

By understanding regulatory standards, embracing technological advancements, prioritizing comfort and incorporating feedback, contractors can make informed decisions that enhance safety. Continued education will ensure workers are equipped with the best possible protection in an increasingly hazardous environment.

Editor's note: This article represents the independent views of the author and should not be considered a National Safety Council endorsement.