top of page

Eye Protection

Eye protection is essential personal protective equipment (PPE) designed to shield the eyes from physical, chemical, and infectious hazards, preventing injuries and long-term damage. Eyes are delicate and highly sensitive, making them vulnerable to injuries from flying debris, chemical splashes, radiation, infectious agents, and extreme environmental conditions. Proper eye protection reduces the risk of accidents, permanent damage, and infection. In many workplaces, wearing eye protection is legally required, particularly in laboratories, manufacturing, construction, welding and healthcare.
Eye protection is essential personal protective equipment (PPE) designed to shield the eyes from physical, chemical, and infectious hazards, preventing injuries and long-term damage. Eyes are delicate and highly sensitive, making them vulnerable to injuries from flying debris, chemical splashes, radiation, infectious agents, and extreme environmental conditions. Proper eye protection reduces the risk of accidents, permanent damage, and infection. In many workplaces, wearing eye protection is legally required, particularly in laboratories, manufacturing, construction, welding and healthcare.…

Common Types of Eye Protection

  1. Safety Glasses: Resemble regular glasses but are made from durable materials to withstand impact, weather, and work conditions. They often include side shields and can accommodate prescription lenses.

    3

  2. Safety Goggles: Provide a tighter seal around the eyes, protecting against chemical splashes, dust, and harmful vapors. They may feature anti-fog and anti-scratch coatings for better visibility.

    3

  3. Face Shields: Cover the entire face and are used in combination with goggles or glasses for protection against high-risk hazards like welding sparks, chemical splashes, or infectious droplets.

    3

  4. Specialized Helmets and Shields: Includes welding helmets, non-rigid hoods, and respirator facepieces designed for specific industrial or laboratory hazards.

    1

  5. 4 Sources

Selection and Fit

Choosing the right eye protection depends on the type of hazard, exposure level, and comfort. Well-fitted eyewear should minimize gaps between the lenses and the face to prevent debris or fluids from entering. Features like lens coatings, color options, and flexible frames enhance both safety and comfort. In healthcare settings, indirectly-vented goggles with anti-fog coatings are recommended to protect against splashes, sprays, and infectious droplets.


Additional Considerations

  • Eye protection should be worn consistently in hazardous environments.

  • Regular inspection and maintenance of protective equipment ensure effectiveness.

  • Employers should provide multiple styles and sizes to accommodate different users and tasks.

  • Combining eye protection with other PPE, such as gloves, masks, or gowns, enhances overall safety in workplaces and healthcare settings.

  • By understanding the types, proper fit, and usage of eye protection, individuals can significantly reduce the risk of eye injuries and maintain long-term eye health.


ABCO Supply stocks a wide range of eye protection from brands such as 3M, Pyramex, Honeywell, Portwest, Radnor, MCR Safety, Radians, Gateway, Phillips plus many more.


bottom of page