You rely on your glasses every day to see clearly. But your regular eyeglasses may not offer the protection your eyes need when you’re on a job site, in a workshop, or even working on a project at home.
If your work or hobbies expose you to these dangers, you need certified prescription safety glasses to keep your eyes protected without compromising your sight. Flying debris, chemical splashes, and intense light can all pose a risk to your vision.
What Makes Safety Glasses Different from Your Everyday Pair?
There are a few significant differences between regular eyeglasses and safety glasses.
The Canadian Standard for Safety Eyewear
In Canada, all protective eyewear needs to meet standards from the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) to address common eye hazards. Check for the CSA Z94.3 mark on the frame to confirm you have certified protection. This little mark indicates that your glasses can handle harsh conditions and provide adequate eye protection.
How Safety Glasses Get Tested for Toughness
To earn the CSA mark, safety glasses undergo a series of tests. These checks ensure they can withstand real-world risks. The tests look for:
- Impact from heavy objects
- Impact from small, fast-moving objects
- Resistance to flames or corrosion
Frames and Lenses Built for Protection
Safety frames are often made from stronger materials than your daily-wear glasses. They are designed to prevent lenses from being pushed toward your eyes during an impact. The lenses themselves are also made from impact-resistant materials for an added layer of defence.
Jobs and Hobbies That Call for Eye Protection
There are several instances where you would need certified eye protection.
Protection from Flying Objects and Particles
Many jobs and at-home projects create small particles that can easily get into your eyes. Proper eye safety practices can help you prevent injuries. If you work in these fields, protective eyewear is usually required.
- Construction and carpentry
- Grinding or metalwork
- Woodworking and sanding
Shields Against Splashes and Chemicals
You also need eye protection when your work involves liquids that could splash, as some incidents may require urgent eye care. This requirement includes jobs where you handle things like:
- Cleaning chemicals
- Acids or other hazardous fluids
- Paint or industrial sprays
Guards for Radiation, Heat and Sparks
Some tasks require special lenses that protect you from more than just physical objects. You need specialized eyewear for work that involves:
- Welding or torch cutting
- Work with molten materials
- Furnace operation
Your Guide to Prescription Safety Lenses and Frames
You don’t have to put safety goggles over your prescription glasses. Polycarbonate is a common choice for safety lenses because it’s very impact-resistant and lightweight. It also provides protection from UV rays, which is helpful for outdoor work.
Lens Types for Your Vision Needs
Your specific vision correction can be built directly into certified safety lenses. You can get them in several types, just like regular glasses.
- Single-vision: Corrects for one field of vision
- Bifocal: Offers 2 distinct prescription areas in one lens
- Progressive: Provides a smooth transition between different vision distances
Features for a Secure and Comfortable Fit
Modern safety glasses are usually comfortable for all-day wear. Look for features like integrated side shields for wrap-around protection or comfortable nose bridges that keep the frames from slipping.
Employer Responsibilities for Workplace Eye Safety
Employers help keep your eyes safe on the job by identifying potential risks. They should perform a hazard assessment to determine the type of eye protection you need. Your eye care team can also provide advice based on your professional needs during an exam.
Who Pays for Prescription Safety Glasses?
Policies on who covers the cost of prescription safety glasses can differ from one company to another. You can speak with your safety officer or human resources department to learn about your workplace’s specific program.
Connect with an Eye Doctor in Winnipeg
An eye doctor can help you find a solution that offers both certified protection and clear vision for your job or hobby. After a comprehensive eye exam, our team can help you select a frame and lens combination that works for you.
Protecting your eyesight is essential, and you can take straightforward steps to safeguard it at work or while pursuing your hobbies. With the right prescription safety glasses, you can focus on the task at hand without worrying about potential eye hazards.
The team at See Eye Clinic can help you explore your options for certified safety eyewear. Schedule a visit to discuss your needs and find a comfortable, protective solution.
