Eye protection is not just about compliance; it's about safeguarding your sight. An eye injury isn’t just a minor inconvenience; it can seriously impact an individual's quality of life, and their career.
In the workplace, eyes have to be protected from impact, splashes from hazardous substances, dust and fumes, heat, and even UV and IR light. That’s why choosing the right eye protection isn't ‘one-size-fits-all’. You need to consider the specific hazards present in your work environment and choose the right protective eyewear to suit.
For industries operating in the UK, it's important to look for products compliant with EN166. This is the European standard that specifies requirements for personal eye-protection, covering aspects like optical quality, field of vision, and crucially, resistance to various hazards including impact. Many quality safety glasses will also boast features like anti-mist coatings to prevent fogging in varying temperatures and anti-scratch coatings to prolong their lifespan and maintain clear vision.
Common types of protective eyewear and their applications
1 - Safety Glasses
They look like regular glasses, but the stronger lenses and frames are designed to withstand impact. They can feature side shields for additional protection. They protect against moderate impact from flying particles, dust, and glare and are suitable for any task with low risk. Our best-selling Wraparound Safety Glasses are a popular choice for versatile protection.
2 - Safety Goggles
These fit snugly around the eyes, providing a sealed barrier against hazards. One key benefit is that they can be worn over prescription glasses. They offer superior protection against impact, dust, liquid splashes, and fine particles, making them essential for chemical handling, woodworking, and environments with airborne debris.
3 - Face Shields
Face shields are a secondary form of protection, covering the entire face, from forehead to chin. They should be worn over safety glasses or goggles and can provide an extra layer of protection against hazardous liquids, intense heat and impacts.
4 - Welding Helmets and Eyewear
These are specialised equipment designed to protect against heat, sparks, and the spatter generated during welding. Helmets cover the entire face and neck for full protection.
At Workline Safety, we stock a comprehensive range of high-quality, compliant eye protection from leading brands. Our team is here to help you identify the right solutions for your specific workplace needs, ensuring your team has the best possible defence against eye injuries. View our full range here.
