Safety glasses play a key role in preventing occupational hazards linked to splashes, dust, chips or chemicals. This category covers a variety of models (goggle-style glasses, overglasses and face shields) suited to industry, construction, chemicals, maintenance or food processing. According to the INRS, eye injuries account for a significant proportion of workplace accidents, which reinforces the value of choosing equipment suited to the hazard.
What standards apply to safety glasses?
Choosing safety glasses relies on compliance with European and international standards. EN 166 sets out the general requirements (mechanical resistance, splash protection, optical requirements and markings). Depending on exposure, other references complete the selection.
- EN 170: filters for protection against ultraviolet (UV) radiation
- EN 172: solar protection filters for industrial use
- EN 169: welding filters
These references, followed in France via the AFNOR framework, help compare markings (F, B, A for impact) and filtration levels.
In practice, the standards guide the choice towards suitable lenses (optical class), side protection and treatments (anti-scratch, anti-fog) consistent with the environment and frequency of exposure. Recommendations from the INRS, EU-OSHA and OPPBTP serve as operational benchmarks, particularly during multi-site audits. Compliance is also checked via the manufacturer's markings and the associated documentary traceability.
What types of safety glasses are there, and for which sectors?
Eye protection equipment comes in several types to meet the needs of every professional environment.
The table below summarises the uses, hazards covered and associated standards.
| Type | Hazard covered | Common standard(s) | Target sectors |
|---|---|---|---|
| Goggle-style glasses | Liquid splashes, fine dust, spatter | EN 166 (seal depending on design) | Chemicals, laboratories, maintenance, food processing |
| Overglasses | Impact and splashes, worn over prescription glasses | EN 166 | Light industry, logistics, workshops, site visits |
| Face shields | High-energy splashes, chips, hazards to the face | EN 166 (shield) + requirements depending on use | Metalworking, grinding, cutting, industrial maintenance |
| Welding goggles | Radiation and glare linked to welding | EN 169 | Boilermaking, pipefitting, building sites, workshops |
The choice also depends on the pace of work (fixed workstation or multi-tasking), co-activity constraints and internal requirements: standardisation by site, visitor allocations, compatibility with other PPE.
How should safety glasses be maintained?
Thorough maintenance is essential to preserve the effectiveness of the equipment and guarantee user safety. It is advisable to clean the lenses regularly with a soft cloth and a suitable solution, avoiding abrasive products that could damage surface treatments. Glasses should be stored in a suitable protective container when available (rigid case or fabric pouch) or in a clean, dry place, away from dust, impact and UV rays. Scratches, cracks, deformation or loss of clarity are signs of wear that require the equipment to be replaced.
The INRS and OPPBTP recommend formalising these practices in an internal procedure (cleaning frequency, storage rules, replacement arrangements) and raising user awareness to avoid dry wiping or the use of solvents. For very dusty or humid environments, dedicated consumables (optical wipes, sprays) limit abrasion and help maintain visibility.
What specific points should be considered for safety glasses?
Eye protection must integrate with other PPE: helmets, respiratory masks or hearing protection. It is essential to select ergonomic, adjustable, lightweight models to ensure comfort during extended wear. Some models feature anti-fog or anti-scratch treatments, valuable in humid, dusty areas or those subject to significant temperature variations.
To make your choice, check concrete, traceable criteria: CE marking and EN 166 markings on the lens and frame, optical class, level of mechanical resistance (F/B/A), type of side protection, and suitability of the filter (UV, solar, welding). Compatibility with other PPE (thin arms under earmuffs, volume under a helmet visor, seal with a half mask) reduces fit issues. In the event of high risk, the risk assessment must confirm the expected level of protection and consistency with INRS and EU-OSHA recommendations.